A Lurgan man who a judge says would rather ‘torture’ his mother than get a job has been handed a £400 fine.
The 22-year-old faced one single charge relating to drugs after other alleged offences relating to his mother were withdrawn because she failed to attend for a contest.
Declan Keenan, of Princes Street, pleaded guilty to possession of Class B at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
Prosecution withdrew three contested counts of criminal damage relating the defendant’s mother, after the injured party failed to attend.
It was outlined that on August 12, following being arrested with regards to a domestic incident whilst in police custody a quantity of herbal cannabis was found on the Keenan’s person.
When interviewed, the defendant admitted that the drug was his and claimed it was personal use.
Defence barrister Conor Lunny stated: “This is a young man who is no stranger to this court; there has been an escalation in his record over recent times.
“Police accounts show it was a small amount, which he volunteered upon his arrest and he has nothing else pending”.
District Judge Bernie Kelly said: “He is 20 years of age, he is fit, healthy man, granted she is not here and the charges were withdrawn but he’d rather torture his mother than go out and get a job”.
Keenan was ordered to pay a fine of £400, along with the offender’s levy of £15, within 12 weeks.
