A Clarenbridge-based demolition contractor with a gambling addiction pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply under Section 15A of the Control of Drugs Act which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years unless exceptional circumstances apply. He also pleaded guilty to a money-laundering charge.
Edvinus Puleikis, Stradbally North, Clarinbridge came before Judge Brian O’Callaghan at Galway Circuit Criminal Court, pleading guilty to possession for sale or supply of cocaine, cannabis and MDMA to the value of €53,094 and possession of €31,000 in cash for the purpose of money laundering. He has no previous convictions.
The Court heard the defendant was pleading guilty to the charges. His defence pleaded that he had been holding the drugs and money for a third party who came and went to his home.
He was originally from Lithuania but has been living in Ireland for 22 years. He has three children and is fully employed as a demolition contractor.
He had co-operated with Gardaí in the search of his home and pointed out to them where items were hidden under the floorboards in his attic.
His defence pleaded he had a gambling addiction and was on a treatment waiting-list. He also has ongoing medical issues for which he is undergoing treatment.
Adjourning sentencing until July 22, Judge O’Callaghan ordered a Probation report. He also imposed curfew conditions, explaining that the alternative was a remand in custody until July.
This article is funded by Comisiún na Meán.
