Magherafelt father-of-four with 'creeping addiction' for cannabis placed on probation for a year
A Magherafelt father-of-four caught with cannabis and diazepam on three occasions over the Christmas and New Year period, was placed on probation 12 months at the local Magistrates Court on Wednesday.
Arnold Devlin, aged 36, of Coolshinney Close, admitted two counts of possessing cannabis on December 18 and 24 last year, and one of possessing diazepam on January 26.
The court heard the offences were detected when the defendant was stopped by police at road checks at Strand Road, Derry; Grange Road, Magherafelt, and Ballyronan Road, Magherafelt.
Prosecuting counsel told the court that police smelled cannabis on speaking to the defendant and he later made full admissions.
Defence solicitor Stephen Atherton asked the court to give the defendant “maximum credit” for entering early pleas to all matters.
Mr Atherton pointed out the defendant had a 10-year break from offending and the court may think he had adopted a cavalier attitude in committing these offences within a matter of weeks.
He explained Devlin has four children and a stable family background and worked within the construction industry.
Mr Atherton said he has “a creeping addiction to cannabis” which he used for relaxation.
He added that the defendant is hoping to seek help with regard to that and recognises that he needs assistance.
District Judge Conor Heaney said having read the pre-sentence report he noted the defendant has stayed out of trouble since 2016.
The judge remarked that the pattern of offending would suggest to him there is an addiction to drugs.