Limerick man gets two weeks jail for heroin possession
GARDAI found cocaine and heroin on a Limerick man who was “acting suspiciously”, Kilmallock Court heard.
Niall Hogan, aged 54, of Ashbrook Lawn, Ennis Road, Limerick city pleaded guilty to the possession of drugs at St Ita Street, St Mary’s Park on September 28, 2022.
Inspector Gearoid Thompson, prosecuting, said gardai were on duty in St Mary’s Park on the day.
“They observed a male acting suspiciously. A search was conducted and heroin valued at €50 and €20 of cocaine found,” said Insp Thompson.
The court heard Mr Hogan has 42 previous convictions including two section 2 assaults, one section 3 assault, four possession of drugs, seven no driving licence, six no insurance, 12 thefts, one criminal damage, robbery, two burglary and two hit and run.
Con Barry, solicitor for Mr Hogan, said the last offence dates back to 2015.
“It was eight years ago. He is on a methadone programme,” said Mr Barry, who handed in letters to Judge Patricia Harney regarding clean urine samples.
“He gets tested every time he goes in. He had one slip up. He has pleaded guilty at the first opportunity. He is dealing with his addiction,” said Mr Barry.
Judge Harney said “this is heroin in St Mary’s Park”.
“He has 42 previous convictions. Your client can’t afford slips. This is heroin,” said Judge Harney, who imposed a two week prison sentence.
“Enough is enough. If there was not an early plea I would have taken a different course,” said Judge Harney.
Recognisance was fixed in the event of an appeal.