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'Hapless' drugs holder whose home was targeted by 'yobs' avoids jail
Summary
Robert Hanratty, 48, of Whiteacre Place, Ballymun, pleaded guilty to possession of zopiclone tablets at his home and a location in Ballymun for sale or supply on 6 January 2023. He held over €30,000 worth of sleeping tablets, claiming he did so to deter vandalism by local youths who had targeted his home. Hanratty, described as vulnerable and with a drink problem, had four minor prior convictions unrelated to drugs. Judge Orla Crowe noted the statutory minimum for the offence is 10 years but, citing his cooperation and lack of prior drug convictions, set a headline sentence of three years, reduced to two years and four months, and suspended the entire term. The court emphasized that a suspended sentence remains a real penalty and may be re‑entered if further issues arise. The case involved 15,680 tablets recovered, valued at €32,200, and a psychological report detailing Hanratty's mental health and alcohol use. No further convictions were reported.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: 'Hapless' drugs holder whose home was targeted by 'yobs' avoids jail. Charges or matters: possession of zopiclone tablets at his home and a location in Ballymun for sale or supply on January 6, 2023. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- January 6, 2023 Incident
- 2024-11-08 Publication
Why: Photo: Collins) A "hapless character" who said he was holding over €30,000 worth of sleeping tablets because his home had been targeted by "juvenile delinquents" has been given a suspended sentence. CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: possession of zopiclone tablets at his home and a location in Ballymun for sale or supply on January 6, 2023 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Judge Crowe set a headline sentence of three years but in light of Hanratty's personal and mitigating circumstances, imposed a sentence of two years and four months which she suspended in full. She said if there were any further issues the matter would be re-entered and noted a suspended sentence hangs over a person as "a real penalty." Garda Peter Elliot previously told Marc Thompson Grolimund BL, prosecuting, that gardai on patrol spotted Hanratty acting suspiciously and found three boxes of zopiclone tablets on his person.
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