A Belfast man who was caught with a ‘dealer’s list’ when his home was raided by police was placed on three years Probation today (Tuesday).
Craig Stewart appeared at Belfast Crown Court and was sentenced for four drugs offences by Judge Geoffrey Miller KC.
The 26-year old, from Eversleigh Street, admitted possessing cannabis with intent to supply, possessing cocaine and possessing criminal property on April 28, 2021.
He also admitted a charge of being concerned in the supply of cannabis over a period from December 31, 2019 to April 28, 2021.
Belfast Crown Court heard that on the latter date, police carried out a planned search of his home and located small amounts of cannabis and cocaine. Also seized during the search was cash, a dealer’s list and Stewart’s mobile phone.
Following his arrest, Stewart said the drugs found were for his personal use, claimed the list was a note of people he had lent money to and the cash was the proceeds of the sale of his mother’s caravan. Judge Miller said the evidence in the case suggested Craig’s claims about the list and cash found in his home were false.
The Judge added that messages on Stewart’s mobile phone - such as ‘any smoke mate?’ and ‘are you able to strap two G mate?’ - indicated he was buying drugs in bulk then selling them on to “repeat customers” over a 16-month period.
Defence barrister Richard McConkey told Judge Miller that until he was charged with the drugs offences, Stewart had a clear criminal record - and there was “nothing pending”.
Describing Stewart as a “young man who is going to need an awful lot of rehabilitation and assistance for his ongoing drug misuse”, Mr McConkey cited his client’s drug addiction as “a disease”.
The defence barrister also spoke of Stewart’s remorse and said “he deeply, deeply regrets his involvement in this”.
Saying he accepted Stewart had a “troubled childhood” and a history of poor mental health, Judge Miller spoke of the need for Stewart to address these issues. The Judge made Stewart the subject of three years Probation and ordered that he undertake 100 hours community service.
Addressing Stewart, Judge Miller concluded the case by telling him: “This is not an easy option. You will be required to comply each and every step of the way during the next three years.
“If you don’t step up to the mark, you will be referred back to this court, I will revoke that order and you will go to prison.”
After confirming he understood, Stewart was told “you may leave the dock”.
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