Louth drug dealer ‘aligned with significant criminals’ jailed for three-and-a-half years
A 23-year-old man “aligned with significant criminal elements” has been jailed for three-and-a-half years after Gardaí found drugs behind kitchen kickboards in his home.
Josh McLoughlin pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis for sale or supply with a value of €13,000 or more.
He told investigators following his arrest in connection with the €28,000 haul, “I don’t care what comes. I want this over with.”
Passing sentence after the case had been adjourned for a probation report, Judge Dara Hayes said that this was serious offending.
The defendant had expressed a view that he was glad to be caught. He had moved away from Drogheda for a time.
Previously, Det Gda Dean Hyland said that Mr McLoughlin’s address at the time, Cherrywood Close, Termon Abbey, Drogheda, was searched on June 30, 2023.
Behind loose kitchen boards officers discovered two bags of packages in cling film.
A small amount of cannabis (1.9g) was in Mr McLoughlin’s bedroom, along with a weighing scales and packaging.
The drugs weighed 1.427kg in total with a market value of €28,540.
The court heard of eight previous convictions, all from the district court, including seven for Road Traffic matters and one for Section 3 possession of drugs.
Cross-examined by Jim McGowan SC, Det Gda Hyland said that he had retained an interest in Josh McLoughlin.
“He’s aligned with significant criminal elements. I can’t speak favourably of him.”
On the adjourned date, Mr McGowan said that the defendant was working in his father’s plumbing business and hoped to commence an apprenticeship in September.
He had been unwilling to attend addicition services in Drogheda because he was afraid of who he might meet there. He engaged with services in Dundalk.
Judge Hayes noted that in a probation report Mr McLoughlin described what happened as a turning point. He was assessed at high risk of reoffending.
Born in north Dublin, his parents separated. His cannabis use started at age 12 or 13. He has reduced his drug use.
A probation officer said that it was important that the defendant “breaks ties” and addresses his addiction.
A five-year and three-month sentence was imposed, the final 21 months suspended.