TWO friends from Letterkenny were found to be in possession of drugs while on their way to a wedding.
Oran McGuinness and Jaden Grimes appeared before Letterkenny District Court, each on two counts of possession following an incident on 20 September, 2019, at Woodlands.
Garda Callaghan was on mobile patrol when a car overtook the unmarked patrol car on a continuos white line. Gardaí stopped the car and spoke to the occupants.
Garda Callaghan noticed that McGuinness, a front seat passenger, was nervous when he approached. The Garda noticed white powder on McGuinness’ trousers.
McGuinness (20) of 11B Mountain View, Calhame, Letterkenny was found in possession of €80 worth of cocaine and €10 cannabis to the value of €10.
Solicitor for McGuinness – who has no previous convictions – Mr Patsy Gallagher said his client, a student, was ‘a young man with a bright future’.
“He was fully cooperative and his demeanour gave him away,” Mr Gallagher said. “There was nothing untoward. He made a stupid mistake.”
McGuinness was ordered to pay €250 in respect of each charge to Letterkenny Youth and Community Club.
Garda Callaghan spoke to Grimes, a rear seat passenger, and found a plastic bag in his suit jacket.
Grimes (21) of Carnamuggagh Upper, Letterkenny, was found with €140 worth of cocaine and cannabis to the value of €10 when searched.
Solicitor for Gimes, Mr Frank Dorrian, said his client – who has no previous convictions – was a 21-year-old man who was in gainful employment since he was 16.
“There is no acceptance within his circle, other than this event, and he assures me this is the end of it,” Mr Dorrian said.
“He has learned his lesson and there is abhorrence on the part of his family. There is no pattern of poor behaviour of any kind and this has brought about a certain attitude change. He assures me that the concept is at an end.”
Addressing Judge Paul Kelly, Grimes said he had made ‘a big mistake’ and admitted his ‘regret’.
McGuinness was ordered to pay €300 in respect of each charge to Letterkenny Youth and Community Club.