Young Corkman admitted to gardaí that he was drug dealing

A MAN who was caught in Bishopstown with over €1,200 worth of ecstacy and more than €1,500 in cash admitted to gardaí that drug-dealing was his main source of income.

Seán Hussey, O’Rahilly Row, Fermoy, pleaded guilty at Cork District Court, where his solicitor Frank Buttimer said his circumstances had changed dramatically for the better since the crime was detected. He had pleaded guilty to having drugs for sale or supply

Sergeant Pat Lyons said that on August 6, 2020, at Belfort, Rossa Avenue, Bishopstown, where Hussey was living at the time, a warrant was executed by Garda Ken Lawton to carry out a search.

“During the course of the search, MDMA — better known as ecstasy — to the value of €1,230 was located in the bedroom of Seán Hussey, along with €1,545 in cash,” said Sgt Lyons.

“Seán Hussey was subsequently arrested, detained, and interviewed, and he made full admission to the sale or supply of the drugs.

“Mr Hussey further admitted that his main source of income was drug dealing. The DPP directed summary prosecution.”

The inspector made an order to have the seized cash forfeited to the State. The defence said there was no objection to that application. Sgt Lyons said the accused was convicted seven times previously for having drugs for his own use, and twice for drug dealing.

Mr Buttimer said the offence before the court now dated back approximately three and a half years and may have been delayed for forensic analysis of the drugs or because of reasons relating to the covid pandemic.

Mr Buttimer said of the Garda interview with the accused: “It was quite a candid, forthcoming interview. He was a heavy drug user himself at that time and the supply of drug was connected with his drug dependency.

“Matters have improved dramatically since. I believe the court would benefit from a probation report. It would enlighten [the court] and be of benefit to the accused.”

Judge Mary Dorgan agreed to direct a probation report and put sentencing back until April 8.