Keep up with Armagh i

Drug dealer applies for legal aid as judge queries where his money has gone

Craigavon Courthouse

A pre-sentence report has been ordered after a Portadown teenager pleaded guilty to drug dealing.

James Robert Owens, 19, of Cannagola Road, pleaded guilty to possession of class B with intent to supply at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

Defence barrister David McKeown stated that a pre-sentence report might be required for sentencing in this case.

District Judge Bernie Kelly quizzed the prosecution on what the maximum sentence she could impose – it was revealed as being six months.

Judge Kelly stated: “So PPS says dealing does not warrant more than a six-month sentence, all I can say is I am glad my children are reared”.

This case will return to court on August 29 for a pre-sentence report.

Mr McKeown also filed for legal aid for his client with judge Kelly asking “where had all his money from dealing gone”.

It was heard in court that a total of £215 in cash had been seized from Owens.

Judge Kelly granted the legal aid but only after the defendant agreed to the forfeiture of his car.

Local jobs

Sign Up To Our Newsletter

Most read today

More in Portadown