Kilmainhamwood man 'turned his life around' after drugs charge

A JUDGE said a 37 year old man has “turned his life around” after he got himself drug free and is now seeking employment.

This comment was made by Judge John Martin during the finalisation of the case involving Patrick Geraghty from Newtown, Kilmainhamwood, Kells charged with possession of drugs for sale or supply.

The case was previously adjourned on 22nd October last year for the preparation of a probation report to see if he is suitable for community service.

In July of 2021 at the accused’s address, Mr Geraghty was found in possession was found in possession of €16,300 in cannabis. This included 21 bags of cannabis herbs, cannabis resin and plants, €3,000 in cash and cannabis plant growth equipment. Judge John Martin said it was a sophisticated setup with heating and cooling systems.

“That doesn’t sound like to me a student trying to grow something in their parent’s hot press,” Judge Martin said.

On the day he cooperated with gardai and showed them to a tent where the plants were being grown. The court heard he was using cannabis to deal with his anxiety issues and was trying to clear a drug debt.

Defending Barrister Gallagher told the court Mr Geraghty is “genuinely making the best fist of this”. Since this incident Mr Geraghty is now on medication and going to a therapist for his anxiety.

He has received assistance from welfare to gain a certificate driving a dumper and a safe pass court was completed to help him seek employment. He is supported by his family and supports his sister who has a child with additional needs.

The court heard his probation report was very positive, saying he is now living a happy drug free life and is at a low risk of reoffending.

The court heard there was gaps in the weekly urine analysis which defending barrister Niall Gallagher told the court was due to one of these analyses falling on 25th December when they weren’t open. All drug samples submitted tested negative for drugs.

The accused has no previous convictions and has not come to garda attention since this incident.

Judge Martin said Mr Geraghty has effectively “turned his life around” and hopefully he will be in the right frame of mind when employed.

Mr Geraghty was given a two and a half year sentence fully suspended for three years. This is on condition he does 240 hours of community service with two years, remains drug free, is in care of probation services, continues his urine analysis, and enters a peace bond.