Jan 26 - Cannabis Trial Begins At Supreme Court – Local Man Accused
The trial of a local accused of acting as a cannabis delivery man started this morning at the Supreme Court.
John Paul Pereira faces one charge of possession with intent to supply cannabis resin.
The court heard how Pereira had been stopped by police officers on the night of 21st March 2013 as he was riding his motorbike up Prince Edward’s Road. On being confronted by the officers, Pereira handed over a bag that contained 10 wrappers of cannabis resin.
The total amount of cannabis seized was 97.83g with an estimated street value of almost £490. Pereira was also in possession of £80 and a list of initials and numbers.
Before police searched his residence, Pereira was also seen attempting to dispose of a small wrapper which was later found to contain 0.19g of amphetamine sulphate (speed). A search of his workplace also resulted in the discovery of a small amount of cannabis.
Ishbel Armstrong, appearing for the Crown, argued that the evidence suggested that Pereira was a “delivery man” taking the drugs from suppliers to street dealers.
The defendant denies the charge and argued that, as he smokes 20-30 joints a day, the cannabis in his possession was for his own use. The Crown, however, claims that this is unlikely as no smoking paraphernalia was found during police investigations.
Pereira had already pleaded guilty to simple possession of the cannabis and the amphetamine. Therefore, the jury need only decide upon the matter relating to the possession with intent to supply 97.83g of cannabis.
Pereira is represented by Ian Watts. Puisne Judge Karen Prescott is hearing the trial.
