Judge tells Larne woman sentenced for being concerned in supply of drugs: 'Stay away from this poison'

The 32-year-old defendant was charged with being concerned in the supply of a Class B drug, namely methylmethcathinone, to another person on March 4, 2024.

Laura Clark, whose address was listed as Linn Road, had a previous record.

A hearing of Ballymena Magistrates' Court was told on Thursday, October 15, that the defendant's phone had been seized and there was a number of messages which showed she was concerned in supply of the drug methylmethcathinone.

"Deal lists" with names and amounts were located, the court was also told.

Deputy District Judge Mark Hamill noted that the defendant had said she was "used" by another person.

A defence barrister outlined to the court that at the time of the offence, the defendant was a "severe drug addict".

He said she has "done very significant work to turn her life around" by being at rehab in Wales and that she is "somewhat of a success story so far".

Judge Hamill remarked that with drugs there are "prey" and "predators". He told the defendant: "It may well be that you were in effect being used.”

He warned: “Do not come to this court again as a predator because you will get no mercy.

"Stay away from this poison. I want you to continue with your progress", the deputy district judge added.

The defendant was given a one-year conditional discharge.