Supplied drugs allegedly ‘to make money for Christmas’

The man, who cannot be named as a result of an anonymity order, is charged with supplying cocaine, being concerned in the supply of the class A drug and possessing cocaine.

The offences were allegedly committed between October 2 and December 2.

Derry Magistrate’s Court heard allegations that police stopped a vehicle in the city because they suspected that the occupants were involved in drug supply.

It is alleged officers saw the defendant making ‘discreet movements’ within the car, towards the rear footwell.

The car was searched and a bag of suspected cocaine was seized, it was claimed.

The defendant was arrested and a search of his home address was authorised.

The court was told that the man’s phone was examined and he allegedly sent a text message to a woman saying ‘get there ASAP love’ prior to his arrest,

An investigating officer said police believe this was an attempt to interfere with the investigation and possibly move other drugs.

During interview, the defendant allegedly told police he had bought 10 to 12 grams of cocaine and it was in his flat. However, no drugs were found during the search of the property.

It is further alleged he admitted that he was selling cocaine to three or four friends to make some money for Christmas.

Opposing bail, the officer said police suspect he is selling drugs to more people and was allegedly ‘deeply involved in the supply of drugs’.

Defence solicitor Paddy MacDermott said his client had made admissions to being a low level supplier.

He added that the man was addicted to cocaine in the past and had been ‘slipping back into bad habits’ recently.

The solicitor said conditions could be imposed to manage police concerns in the case.

District Judge Barney McElholm refused the application, stating it was ‘premature’ and there was a high risk of further offences.

The defendant was remanded in custody until a later date.