Man allegedly had drugs valued at over €13,000 in Laois

A book of evidence was served on a man who is accused of having drugs valued at over €13,000 in Laois. 

James ‘Seamus’ Brophy (49) of Lough, Portarlington is accused of possessing drugs valued at over €13,000 and possessing drugs for sale or supply at Botley Lane, Portarlington on October 11, 2023.

Garda Lisa Murray gave evidence of serving a book of evidence on the accused in Portlaoise Courthouse at a sitting of Portlaoise District Court. She said the defendant had no fixed abode. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said there were three charges in the book of evidence. One of possessing drugs, a second of possessing drugs for sale or supply and a third for possessing drugs with a value in excess of €13,000. 

He said the DPP had consented to the defendant being sent forward to the next sittings of Portlaoise District Court on June 18. 

Judge Susan Fay issued the standard alibi warning and sent the defendant forward to the next sittings of Portlaoise Circuit Court on June 18. 

Solicitor Michael Byrne requested legal aid for one counsel in the case. Judge Fay granted the request and remanded the defendant on bail. 

Judge Fay noted the man had signed his name as Seamus and not James. 

“Are you James or are you Seamus?” she asked. 

“On formal documents I am Seamus but everybody calls me James,” he replied. 

Judge Fay said the court records should read Seamus Brophy otherwise known as James.