Mother told to give charitable donation to Longford court poor box

A mother, who was caught in possession of a small quantity of drugs in Longford, has been directed to make a charitable contribution.

Caroline Duffy of Meadowbrook, Tulsk, Castlerea pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to being in possession of €30 of cannabis at 3 Camlin Mews, Longford on July 11, 2024.

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Sergeant Mark Mahon said the Longford Drugs Unit executed a search warrant at a house and during that operation they spoke with the defendant, searched her and discovered the drugs.

The defendant had six previous convictions, five of which were road traffic related matters and she had no previous convictions for drugs.

Solicitor Frank Gearty said his client has children and most of them are adults apart from one child who is under 18 years of age.

Mr Gearty stated at the time Ms Duffy went through a very serious medical issue, but fortunately she has made a very good recovery.

"She had been self medicating and she acknowledges that but it was just the smallest possible quantity that was for personal use.”

Mr Gearty said his client, a lone parent in 'poor financial circumstances', was holding her hands up and seeking 'possible leniency'.

Mr Gearty said Ms Duffy had been visiting a friend when the search warrant was executed and the residence that was searched was not her house.

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Judge Peter White directed her to make a €350 payment to the court poor box.