Fined €300 for cannabis cultivation

A NAVAN resident responsible for an "elaborate system" of cannabis cultivation was last week fined €300 by Judge Denis McLoughlin, at Dunshaughlin Court.

Martin Jordan, Lismullen, Tara, was convicted of the cultivation of cannabis plants without a licence, at the above address, on 14th September 2006.

A second charge of having cannabis unlawfully in his possession was taken into consideration. His co-accused, Rhonda McGarrell, of the same address, had her case adjourned to the same court on 4th December for a €300 contribution to charity. She was before the court for knowingly permitting the cultivation of cannabis to take place.

Judge McLoughlin indicated that he would apply the Probation Act on payment of €300 to the charity. Both defendants pleaded guilty.

The court heard that Gardai obtained a search warrant, to search the defendant's garden shed under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

The shed was adapted for the cultivation of cannabis plants. Some 23 fully developed plants were found, in addition to numerous containers. When the defendants returned to the premises, Martin Jordan admitted ownership of the plant, while Rhonda McGarrell admitted being aware that they were on the premises. Evidence was given that the approximate value of the cannabis plants was €1,000.

Mr Liam Keane, solicitor, told the court that his clients pleaded guilty at the first opportunity. Martin Jordan freely admits using cannabis. His client has a back problem and finds that the cannabis relieves the pain.

He is currently unemployed as a result of a road traffic conviction. Rhonda McGarrell, who is living with Martin Jordan, knew he grew the plants. Mr Keane said she turned a "blind eye" to the situation, and she shouldn't have, the court heard. The solicitor was assigned to the defendants on free legal aid.