A man received a unique birthday present of a poor box donation recently, as his drug possession case was heard at Waterford District Court on his special day.
Kevin Duna (27) of 11 Johns Lane Apartments, Johns Lane, Waterford, pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis for his own personal use, contrary to Section 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, which related to an incident where he was searched by Gardaí at O’Connell Street, Waterford on 10 November 2024.
Sergeant Alan Hayes told the court that on the day in question, Gardaí stopped and searched the accused, and discovered €25 worth of cannabis in his possession.
Acting for the defendant, solicitor Derrick Connors acknowledged that his client was appearing in court on his birthday. He said that the accused is anxious to avoid a conviction, and is currently a carer for his mother who is unwell. Mr Connors also highlighted that his client has no previous convictions.
Judge Kevin Staunton wished the accused a happy birthday, and said that given the fact he has no previous convictions and was cooperative with Gardaí, he would invite him to make a €300 donation to the court poor box to avoid a conviction.
Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme
Robyn Power
