Sentencing in the case of a 24-year-old Ballybane man who pleaded guilty to drug dealing has been adjourned until after the New Year.
Patrick Murray with an address at 3 Cnoc Na Coille, Ballybane, appeared at Galway District Court on Monday where he pleaded guilty to possession of drugs with intent to sell or supply, contrary to Section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, at Fionnuisce, Doughiska, on March 25, 2011. Charges for possession of cannabis herbal and cocaine were then withdrawn by the State.
Inspector Mick Coppinger told the court that at 2am members of the drugs unit searched a house in Fionnuisce. They made their way to the defendant’s bedroom where they found seven grams of cocaine which has a street value of approximately €500. They also found weighing scales and a grinder. Murray was taken to Galway Garda Station where he admitted that he had acquired a drugs habit costing between €300 and €350 per week. The inspector added that Murray has 13 previous convictions which include drugs offences.
Defence solicitor Valerie Corcoran said that her client is now “clear of cocaine” and is attempting to deal with his issues.
Judge Mary Fahy adjourned sentencing in the matter and remanded Murray on continuing bail to January 11, 2012.
