Longford District Court: Judge suggests probation act for first time offender

A defendant who completed a drug rehabilitation programme was told he may avoid a conviction if he makes a charity donation. Callum Wheelan (25) of Castien, Caldaragh, Carrick on Shannon, Leitrim was charged with possession of cocaine and possession for sale of supply on October 7, 21 at the townland of Mullagh, on the N5, Longford.

The court was presented with an up-to-date probation report which indicated that Mr Whelan had addressed his addiction issues.

Sergeant Mark Mahon outlined the details of the case. He said the defendant was stopped by officers after the vehicle he was driving was “acting in a suspicious manner”. When the Gardaí conducted a search of the vehicle they found cocaine to the value of €876.

When Mr Whelan was brought to Longford Garda Station and interviewed he made full admissions, telling the Gardaí he was bringing the drugs to Carrick on Shannon to give to others. The court heard the defendant had no previous convictions.

Solicitor John Quinn informed the judge his client underwent drug rehabilitation treatment with Hope House and has made aftercare arrangements. Mr Quinn said the defendant has the full support of his mother who is ensuring his rehabilitation progress “is going well”.

Mr Quinn said Mr Whelan “got caught up in a serious addiction” and added that he “hopes to leave it all behind him”.

The solicitor admitted that his client had a relapse after his grandmother passed away, but is “sober and clean for nine months” and is glad of the opportunity to address his drug issues.

The court was told Mr Whelan is studying to become a personal trainer.

Noting the facts of the case, the defendant's early plea and his engagement with treatment services Judge Bernadette Owens said she could take a “certain approach”.

Judge Owens said if Mr Whelan made a payment of €1,500 to the court poor box she would consider dealing with the matter by way of Section 1.1 of the probation act. The case was adjourned to November 28.