Cannabis prosecution for Kerry man with 119 convictions as judge warns it’s his ‘last chance’
The KerrymanA judge convicted a man and gave him a three-month suspended sentence with a €200 bond for cannabis possession at Tralee District Court on Wednesday.
John O’Brien (32) of 25 Mitchells Road, Tralee, had 119 previous convictions, including 16 for possession of a controlled drug and two for possession for sale or supply.
“It appears this man is not prepared to disavow himself from drug use,” said Judge David Waters.
The court heard Mr O’Brien was sentenced to six months in Cork last February.
His last section three at Tralee District Court was on 19 May, 2021.
Solicitor Padraig O’Connell told the court his client willingly gave his name to gardaí and said the joint was for his own use.
“Basically, at the end of the day, you’ve total cooperation,” said Mr O’Connell.
“His wife is on a pilgrimage at Medjugorje,” he added. “I think she should say some prayers for him on the way.”
The judge warned if Mr O’Brien returned before him on another drug-related conviction, he would likely face prison.
“This is the last chance,” said Judge Waters.
“The prayers were better than the plea, judge,” replied Mr O’Connell.