Derry man fined for attempted possession of a Taser

A man has been fined at Derry Magistrate's Court for attempted possession of a Taser.

George Armstrong (59) of Copperthorne in Derry admitted the charge which occurred on November 10 last year.

He also admitted possessing one Magic Mushroom on the same date. 

The court heard that police investigating the attempted possession of a Taser attended at Armstrong's address.

He told them 'I did try and order a Taser'.

A subsequent search of his home located one Magic Mushroom. 

Defence solicitor Seamus Quigley said that his client had not been in any trouble for almost 15 years. 

He said Armstrong suffered mental health issues and this led him to try the mushroom to' improve his mood'.

The solicitor described the incident as 'a stupid course of action' and said there was a low risk of re-offending.

Deputy District Judge Trevor Brown said he was concerned about the Taser. 

He imposed a fine of £100 and a conditional discharge for a period of 12 months.