Matthew Andrew Grant Taggart (19) of Carnmore Lodge, Enniskillen was one of two men charged after an incident at the Ballygawley Roundabout on 13 March 2014.

Prosecuting Counsel Michael McAleer explained PSNI and the Fire Service attended the scene shortly before midnight, following a report from a concerned motorist of a car on fire.

Whilst there were no-one present, an examination found the steering column in the vehicle was intact and police believed the occupants had fled the scene.

Officers checked the general area and located Taggart and his co-accused walking along the Augher Road, thumbing a lift. They were carrying a plastic bag between them.

A search was conducted and a large quantity of drugs were recovered. The pair were arrested and police were later able to link Taggart to the burning vehicle.

He was charged with possessing the Class A drugs Ecstasy and cocaine as well as the Class B drug cannabis, and intending to supply Ecstasy.

The case was committed for Trial at crown court but Taggart pleaded guilty at arraignment. The co-accused denies the charges and his case is to continue separately at Trial.

Having outlined the details of the case, Mr McAleer said Taggart had played a significant role in the offence.

Defence counsel Felix Swift argued his client was younger than the co-accused by some 14 years, and his role was to a lesser degree.

Pre-sentence reports were submitted to the court where Judge Melody McReynolds stated Taggart was “a protagonist”, and the appropriate starting point of sentencing was four years in custody.

However deeming the matter “an exceptional case” Judge McReynolds imposed a three year term suspended for three years.