Courts / Wexford / Report

'Man with a van' wound up in deep trouble as drugs courier

Summary

Paul O'Leary, 51, of Follyhouse Lane, New Ross, pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply after a Garda surveillance operation uncovered two cardboard boxes containing just over 17 kg of cannabis with a street value of €350,104 in his van. O'Leary's role was described by his lawyers and the Garda as that of a courier; he had no wider involvement in the drug transfer. He had two minor previous convictions for public order offences and no criminal history beyond that. O'Leary had advertised himself online as a "man with a van" offering delivery jobs to escape debt, a strategy that attracted others. He expressed deep shame and remorse, and his counsel highlighted his ordinary background, employment history, and community contributions. Judge Melanie Greally adjourned sentencing to 16 November 2020 to allow a probation report to be prepared.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: 'Man with a van' wound up in deep trouble as drugs courier. Charges or matters: possession of the drugs for sale or supply at Sir John Rogerson's, Quay, Dublin on April 24, 2017. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• April 24, 2017 Incident
• November 16, 2020 Adjournment
• 2020-07-27 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Drugs Public Order Stage Hearing Or Decision

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Read the original CNI report