Dungannon Courthouse
A JUDGE has warned he is losing patience with a persistent offender who has clocked up a total of 53 previous convictions.
Gary Hutchinson (29) of Floraville, Enniskillen but remanded in custody since his arrest, pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis and intending to supply, as well as having criminal property in the form of cash.
He appeared in the dock of Dungannon Crown Court for sentencing, dressed in a grey sweatshirt and a pair of jeans.
The court heard that police stopped a vehicle in Enniskillen on 26 May last year which was being driven by Hutchinson. He was found to have a bag containing a small amount of cannabis.
However as a result of this, police then conducted a search of Hutchinson’s home where a significant amount of cannabis was recovered – just short of 500gm.
Given the amount involved, officers concluded this was intended for supply to others. In addition cash in the sums of £2,202.66 and a quantity of euro were also recovered.
Hutchinson admitted the offences.
His Honour Judge Stephen Fowler QC remarked, “It is clear he has issues but he simply cannot stay away from drugs. If he is not before the courts for using drugs it is for thieving to fund his habit.
“Drugs are a scourge in his life. They have destroyed his twenties and I have no doubt will do the same to his thirties if he doesn’t change his ways.”
Addressing Hutchinson directly, Judge Fowler said, “I have sentenced you in the past and I am running out of patience.
“If you appear before me again the sentences will be measured in years, not months.
“There will be a significant ratcheting up.”
He imposed a term of 12 months imprisonment, of which six months will be served in custody and the remainder on licence.
To read more.. Subscribe to current edition
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere