This article is from page 3 of the 2012-06-12 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 3 JPG
A MAN who a Judge said operated a drugs “mini-market” from his former home has been warned not to come to garda attention.
Judge Patrick Durcan was speaking as he adjourned sentencing on John Gaffney (23) at Ennis District Court on Wednesday.
Mr Gaffney, with an address at 4 Sandfield Mews, pleaded guilty to having diazepam for sale or supply at 4 Sandfield Mews on September 23 (2011)
Inspector Tom Kennedy told the court that gardaí found 40 small bags of diazepam during a search of the property.
He said Mr Gaffney admitted to selling the drugs to pay off a drug debt.
Solicitor Thomas Kiely told the court that his client had become highly dependent on drugs at the age of 17.
He said Mr Gaffney had completed a residential treatment programme and after care course at Bushypark.
Mr Kiely said his client intended to become a fitness coach and had obtained a qualification as a nutritionist.
He said Mr Gaffney is a keen athlete who has joined a cycling club.
He said the fact that Mr Gaffney had been placed in custody for a brief period while he waited to have his case heard, had served as a “rude awakening”.
Judge Patrick Durcan said he had to balance the accused’s guilty plea and positive written testimonials handed in on his behalf against his previous record, which includes a conviction for sale or supply of drugs.
Judge Durcan said he had seriously considered imposing a custodial sentence.
He said Mr Gaffney had engaged in “appalling” activity.
He added, “This was 40 small bags, a real little mini-market.”
He remanded Mr Gaffney on continuing bail until November 14. Judge Durcan granted liberty to the State to re-enter the matter at 24 hours notice.
He told the accused not to come to Garda attention.