Man avoids jail after €3.3k drugs haul found at home

A man has avoided prison after drugs worth €3,294 was seized during a search at his home, with Judge Éiteáin Cunningham opting for rehabilitation over custody at Carrick-on-Shannon District Court on October 28.

Ryan McLoughlin (34), of 14 Hartley Wall, Lisnagot, Carrick-on-Shannon, pleaded guilty to a charge under Section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act after Gardaí executed a search warrant at his address and he presented the drugs himself. 

The court heard McLoughlin has been engaging with addiction and after-care services, attending counselling, and working with an employment officer to rebuild his life. A probation report described recent progress and recommended continued supervision.

Defence solicitor Ciarán White told the court that McLoughlin’s offending took place at a time when his addiction was at its worst, but that he had since “turned a corner” in his life.

“He has addressed his drug issues, Judge, and he’s showing real commitment to staying clean,” Mr White said. “He’s in a stable relationship, attending counselling, and trying to find work — he simply wants to move forward.”

Judge Cunningham said the offences were “serious” but noted that McLoughlin had “taken clear steps towards rehabilitation.” She added that continuing with probation “serves both the public interest and your own.”

McLoughlin was convicted and placed on a 12-month probation bond of €200, requiring him to engage fully with probation and addiction counselling. Judge Cunningham warned that any breach would bring him back before the court for sentencing.

Defence counsel told the court the offences occurred while McLoughlin’s addiction was at its worst but that he has since stabilised, remains in a steady relationship and is trying to rebuild his life.

“This is not a free pass,” Judge Cunningham told him. “If you engage, you keep your freedom. If you don’t, you won’t.”

McLoughlin left court under the supervision of the Probation Service and is due to report as directed over the next year.

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