Had crack cocaine in Portlaoise

A man admitted having crack cocaine for personal use in Portlaoise. 

David Byrne, 34, of Apartment 3, St Francis House, Gort na nOir, Abbeyleix admitted having crack cocaine at Portlaoise Garda Station on April 17 last. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the man was searched at Portlaoise Garda Station. 

“He had a piece of crack cocaine valued at €70,” he said.

Sgt Kirby said the man admitted it was for his own personal use. He said the defendant has 69 previous convictions

Solicitor Philip Meagher said his client has had difficulty for many years with mental health and had struggled with heroin and crack cocaine.

He said the man is in a long term relationship and has recently engaged with a treatment programme. 

“He tells me he is completely clean of all drugs now,” said Mr Meagher. 

Mr Meagher said his client had entered a guilty plea and cooperated. 

Judge Andrew Cody gave the man a one month sentence which he suspended for two years