Meath man (22) caught with cannabis in waistband of his trousers avoids conviction

Nathan Farrell (22) had lost his father two months before the drugs stop.

Judge David McHugh struck out the charges after Farrell made a contribution to charity and completed the restorative justice programme.

The defendant, of Townspark Manor, Kells, Co Meath, previously admitted possession of cannabis, as well as having the drug for sale or supply, at Blanchardstown Road North in Blanchardstown on February 23, 2020.

Sergeant Maria Callaghan had told Blanchardstown District Court gardaí were on patrol when they saw a car pull out of Corduff Grove.

Gardaí stopped the car on Blanchardstown Road and got a strong smell of cannabis. Sgt Callaghan said there were four occupants in the car, and Farrell was a front-seat passenger.

He was searched and found with cannabis, with a street value of €516, which was concealed in a plastic bag in the waistband of his trousers.

The court heard Farrell had never been in trouble before.

Defence solicitor John O’Doherty previously said Farrell was selling to fund his own addiction.

Mr O’Doherty said Farrell’s father had died two months before this incident, and he had struggled after his death.

Judge McHugh ordered Farrell to continue with counselling and he struck out the charges after he heard the defendant had completed the restorative justice programme.