2024-01-15 · Cork
Truck driver imported €160k in cannabis due to 'financial pressure'
Jason Hunt, 31, of Woodlands, Courtmacsherry, Co Cork, pleaded guilty to importing over €160,000 worth of cannabis into Ireland. On 4 April 2023, a truck he drove was searched at Dublin Port by a drugs detection dog, which reacted to cannabis. Hunt admitted the presence of the drugs, stating he was under financial pressure and had been offered €3,000 for the shipment. Two shopping bags containing 8.1 kg of cannabis were seized. Hunt has seven prior convictions for minor offences, including drug possession. He has remained in custody since April 2023 and has been sober while in custody, participating in an enhanced prisoner regime. The court considered his financial hardship, depression, anxiety, good work history and family support before sentencing him to three years' imprisonment, back‑dated to his entry into custody. The judge noted Hunt's "terrible misjudgement" and "succumbed to temptation.".