A South East Clare man has been has been jailed for 4 years at Limerick Circuit Criminal Court after Gardaí recovered almost 22,000 euro worth of drugs at his home in Clonlara.
Members of the Limerick Divisional Drugs Unit searched Kevin Kelly’s home in Dromintobin, Clonlara following a surveillance operation at the property on the 18th of March 2007.
The 34 year old former IT technician pleaded guilty to possession of over 2 kilos of cannabis and 620 Xanex tablets for sale or supply
Two vacuum packed bags each containing 1 kilo of cannabis were found in a black plastic bag which Gardaí witnessed Kevin Kelly concealing in a ditch outside his home while they were conducting a stakeout of the premises.
Two bags of cannabis were also recovered in his freezer and 620 Xanex tablets were found in his car.
The total value of the drugs was estimated at €21,938 – €2,800 in cash was also found.
Detective Garda David McGrath said it was the Gardaí’s belief Mr Kelly was dealing drugs himself but was likely supplying the larger quantity of cannabis to other drug dealers.
Defence Counsel Anthony Sammon said Kelly, who is married with 4 young children had worked for almost 7 years as an IT technician in Castletroy and had since tried to supplement his income with various jobs after getting into considerable debt.
Judge Carroll Moran imposed a 4 year sentence.