An Eastville man who turned his life around after dealing drugs years ago has been spared immediate jail. Bristol Crown Court heard Harry Anderson has left offending behind and become a community-minded family man.
Father-of-two Anderson, 27, of Freemantle Gardens, pleaded guilty to being concerned in an offer to supply both cocaine and cannabis between January 2018 and March 2019. He also admitted possession of cannabis with intent to supply. The court heard the case was delayed due to Covid.
The Recorder of Bristol His Honour Judge Peter Blair QC handed him a 20-month jail term, suspended for 18 months. He told Anderson: "You were pretty dependant on drugs. In order to help fund that you got yourself quite tied up in that environment. Things have substantially changed for the better since then - you've become a very much better member of society."
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Kenneth Bell, prosecuting, said police searched Anderson's home in June 2019 and found just over £1,000 worth of cannabis, £720 cash, electronic scales, snap bags and a cannabis grinder. Phones seized were found to contain messages related to drug dealing, Mr Bell said. The court heard Anderson had previous convictions for possessing cannabis resin.
Matthew Comer, defending, said: "In the three years since he has completely changed his life. He accepts he was involved three years ago in selling drugs. For the most part it is the supply of cannabis."
Mr Comer said his client supported a partner and young family, had a delivery job and did voluntary work. Mr Comer said: "He has a full and rewarding life now. He has changed his life since these offences have taken place."
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