Man caught with small amount of cannabis avoids a criminal conviction for drugs

An Inishowen man who had a small amount of cannabis in his possession when he was apprehended by gardai last year will avoid a criminal conviction for drugs if he donates €100 to charity.

Joshua Dalton, of 12 Stoneybridge, Bridgend, admitted a charge of possession of drugs contrary to Section 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Act at Buncrana District Court.

The 35-year-old was caught with €25 worth of cannabis after being stopped by Garda Paul Shevlin at Ludden, Buncrana on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.

Solicitor Ciaran MacLochlainn indicated that his client wanted to plead guilty to the misdemeanor. He told the court that it had been hoped that Mr Dalton could benefit from an adult caution; however, he had a previous conviction, which ruled out that option.

Inspector Sean McDaid revealed how Mr Dalton had one previous conviction for Section 3 [drugs possession] dating back to 2009, as well as “some road traffic matters”.

Judge Eiteain Cunningham pointed out how his previous conviction was 16 years old and was therefore “spent” by this stage.

She asked Mr MacLochlainn: “Is he prepared to make a contribution?”

“Yes, he would be, judge,” the defence solicitor replied.

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The judge then directed Mr Dalton to donate the sum of €100 to the St Vincent de Paul charity shop across the road from the Buncrana Courthouse.

“If he comes back with a receipt, I’ll strike it out,” she ruled.

The case was adjourned until July 22 next, as Mr Dalton’s solicitor indicated that his client would need some time to pay the money.