Fined for drug possession

A DUNAMANAGH man has been fined after being caught with cannabis for the third time.

Jack Dougherty (20) of Berryhill Road appeared at Strabane Magistrates Court on Thursday and was told by Deputy District Judge Brian Archer that the penalties will become more stringent if he is caught with the drug again. The court heard that on April 5, police stopped a vehicle being driven by the defendant near Dunamanagh. There, officers noted a strong smell of cannabis and a subsequent search turned up a small clear bag containing roughly 2 grams. A further search discovered another small quantity of the drug as well as a bong and a grinder. All items were seized and Dougherty later admitted the offence of possession of class B in interview.

“If you continue to be in possession of cannabis you’ll be back before this court… and each time the (penalties) will be more stringent.”

For the single offence of possessing the class B drug, Dougherty was fined £150.