Drug dealer has completely turned his life around, court told
Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court heard that the defendant has completely turned his life around.
A man caught with €130,000 worth of drugs has made "extraordinary" changes to his lifestyle, a court has heard.
Stephen McEvaddy, of Ballymartin, Kilmaine previously pleaded guilty at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court to possessing cocaine and cannabis for sale or supply, as well as money laundering offences.
McEvaddy was caught in possession of cannabis for sale or supply at Cartoon, Cross on April 10, 2021, and faced another charge of possessing cocaine with a market value over €13,000 at Ballymartin, Kilmaine on the same date. He further admitted being in possession of €17,600 in cash at the Kilmaine address, which was the proceeds of criminal conduct.
The drugs discovered were estimated to have a street value of €130,000. It was contended that his involvement in criminal activity was in order to pay off drug debts.
The case was adjourned for sentencing to last week’s sitting of the court where McEvaddy’s turnaround was outlined.
After completing a drug treatment programme in Cork, he is now seeking to help other people with their addiction. McEvaddy has been drug-free for more than a year and has moved back to Mayo.
He is engaging with the Regional Drugs Taskforce with a view to aiding others with addiction problems. McEvaddy has completed a recovery coaching course and is undertaking an addiction studies course as well as leading a running group in Galway for people with addictions.
McEvaddy said his past crimes almost severed relations with his family but those bonds are now as strong as ever. He and his partner are expecting a baby in March.
The defendant said he is aware of the impact his crimes could have had on others.
“I know I could have broken up some families," he told the court.
Judge Eoin Garavan said he "condemns the sinister nature of drug supply" but applauded the accused for the efforts he has made to change his ways.
“This is a case of poacher turned gamekeeper, to put it mildly, and in a positive way,” said the judge.
He said McEvaddy has made "extraordinary" changes in his life.
“It’s very rare that you see this level of improvement.
“This is a man who was down in the gutter frankly,” he added.
Judge Garavan said McEvaddy has now become a part of the "anti-drug war" as he intends to use his past experiences to help others.
The judge imposed a four-year suspended prison sentence.
