Young Tullamore man had 'substantial amount' of drugs for sale or supply

A young Tullamore man pleaded guilty to the possession of drugs for sale or supply, during last week's sitting of the District Court.

Twenty-two year old Ben Connolly from 29 Connolly Park, Tullamore committed the offence on February 22 last when the Gardai searched his home and found the drugs on the premises. He had no previous convictions.

The defending solicitor Aisling Maloney told the court that Mr Connolly was a young man who had been struggling with his mental health at the time of the offence.

“He was also financially strapped at the time,” she remarked. “He is very embarrassed to be here today in court and he also has the full support of his family. This has been a wake-up call for him.”

She added that he is in full-time employment.

Judge Andrew Cody remanded the defendant on continuing bail under his own bond of €100 to March 25 next.

He also ordered that Connolly return regular clear urine samples, on a monthly basis, until the March 25 court sitting.

“The defendant had a substantial amount of drugs in his possession for sale or supply,” the Judge remarked, “and if he comes to the Guards' attention between now and March 25 then he will be going to prison.”

READ NEXT: Court hears Offaly man who was going to the shop was passenger in stolen car →