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Suspended sentences over €147k drugs operation "too lenient", DPP says

Summary

In a 2018 case, Judge Karen O'Connor sentenced Paul Goddard, 58, and Derek Naylor, 47, to four‑year suspended sentences for their roles as drug mules in a €147,498 cannabis operation. The DPP argued the sentences were too lenient, noting that both men were more than mere carriers; they transported drugs to other locations. Naylor, a taxi driver with no prior convictions, admitted a drug debt of €800 and was paid €300, while Goddard, who had four minor traffic convictions, admitted possession of amphetamine and cannabis and was paid €1,000. The DPP highlighted that Goddard faced a threat to his daughter's family and had a moderate risk of reoffending, whereas Naylor's risk was low. The Court of Appeal was asked to review the probation reports and related evidence.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Suspended sentences over €147k drugs operation "too lenient", DPP says. Charges or matters: possession of cannabis resin; possession of amphetamine; possession of cannabis. Procedural stage: appeal

When:

• January 2018 Incident
• August 24, 2016 Incident
• 2019-10-18 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Drugs Stage Appeal

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Read the original CNI report