Man who dealt in drugs appears before the Crown Court

Christopher Gallagher, of Foyle Road, pleaded guilty to nine charges of being concerned in the supply of cannabis between March and December, last year. He also admitted possessing the class B drug with intent to supply.

The court heard police searched his home where they discovered 10.65 grams of cannabis in a freezer bag, a grinder and a mobile phone, which when examined contained 20,000 incoming and outgoing text messages relating to drug supply between the defendant and 63 people.

The court was told Gallagher has five previous drug convictions and had begun smoking cannabis at 16. However, he had not taken cannabis since he was detected.

Passing sentence, Judge Phillip Babington said it is clear Gallagher was heavily immersed in the drug scene in the city and regularly supplied people with drugs.

“It is clear he was selling for money, largely to feed his own habit but not completely. You did not give consideration to the effect the drugs you were selling had on others,” he said.

Half his sentence will be in custody and half on licence.