Offaly drug dealer ordered to do monthly urine tests

A FATHER of five must return to Tullamore District Court and show that he is clear of drugs, Judge Andrew Cody ordered.

Judge Cody ordered Shane McLoughlin (40), Chancery Close, Tullamore to produce clear urine tests each month by July 1 next after he was convicted of drug dealing for a second time.

Mr McLoughlin pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply to others at his address on October 23 last.

Sergeant Brendan Kearns said the drugs involved were €1,106 worth of cocaine and cannabis valued at €39.

Following a search of the accused's home the drugs were seized and Mr McLoughlin made “certain admissions” when questioned.

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He had a total of 65 previous convictions including one for having controlled drugs for sale or supply to others dating from 2022.

There was also an obstruction conviction in 2020 and one for uninsured driving in 2019.

Judge Andrew Cody was told a 10-year disqualification from driving had also previously been imposed on the man.

David Nugent, BL, defending, said Mr McLoughlin suffered from dyspraxia and dyslexia and was currently getting treatment for his drug addiction.

He was supporting his children and partner and because of illness in the family, putting him into custody would cause difficulty.

He had “tidied himself up” and was very sorry for what he had done.

Judge Cody remanded Mr McLoughlin on continuing bail to appear in court again on July 1, saying he would have to undergo analysis of his urine in March, April, May and June “at his own cost”.

The judge also ordered probation and community service reports. “It's his second drug dealing conviction so it's a serious matter,” remarked Judge Cody.