Fined for drug possession

Thomas Anthony Gavin McAllister, 26, from Glenkeen in Dunmurry appeared at Lisburn Magistrates Court this week charged with possession of a Class B drug, namely 4-MEC.

The court heard that the police were carrying out a mobile patrol in the Bellsteele area. The defendant walked towards the vehicle before turning away and making off on foot.

The police caught up with him fifty yards later. Whilst trying to take off from the police, he was observed reaching into his pocket and throwing away a white powered substance. This was retrieved and tested and came back as a Class B drug.

Defence said the defendant had a relevantly stable family life with two children.

She continued: “He panicked when he saw the police and he tried to discard the drugs in his pocket.

“He purchased the drugs and never had the opportunity to use it. He bought it misguidedly.

“He doesn’t intend to bother the court again,” she added.

District Judge Bernadette Kelly imposed a fine of £200 and allowed the defendant twelve weeks to pay the fine. During sentencing Ms Kelly warned the defendant: “Failure to pay the fine within the twelve weeks could result in custody of up to seven days.”