Drug accused a member of a crime gang, Court is told

Richard Callaghan (41), of Rathmore Crescent, was charged in connection with the seizure of £125,000 worth of drugs in June.

He was accused of being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis, possessing the class A and class B drugs with intent to supply and possession. Derry Crown Court heard allegations Callaghan was driving a car provided by the crime gang specifically for doing a drug run. Opposing bail, an investigating officer said police feared the Callaghan would commit further offences if released. The officer said police believed the defendant was a member of an organised crime gang highly involved in supplying class A and class B drugs in the local area.

He alleged the crime gang was ‘sophisticated’ and police believed Callaghan was an active and trusted member of it.

The officer said the gang had lost a significant amount of money as a result of the drugs seizure and the accused might be put under pressure to commit further offences to recoup losses. Defence solicitor Paddy MacDermott said his client had nothing relevant on his record and was used by the gang because he was not known to police.

He claimed Callaghan was paid £200 to do the run and he did not ask too many questions about what was in the car. Mr MacDermott said his client was deeply embarrassed and ashame’ that he had brought these problems on his family. The solicitor said the crime gang appeared to have been broken by police and there had been 17 arrests so far. District Judge Barney McElholm refused bail and ordered Callaghan to appear before the court again on December 29.