Judge concerned by rise in drug-related cases in Westport

A DISTRICT judge has expressed concern over the high number of drug-related cases that are coming before her from Westport.

Cocaine, cannabis, a variety of pills, including prescription pills (Zanex), weighing scales and supply bags were among the items seized in a raid on a house while, in another case, a man was arrrested while sitting in the back of a car and freely admitted to selling cannabis to his friends to fund his own drug habit.

Judge Mary Devins made her views known at the sitting of Westport District Court in Castlebar.

“My worry is that there seems to be an increase in the number of drug-related cases emanating from Westport which are appearing before me.

“I’m just wondering if the gardaí are also aware of this?”

Inspector Paidí O Sé said it was something they were well aware of and there had been a number of successful prosecutions.

“I have noticed the increase in drug-related cases in Westport and it is something we are monitoring regularly and watching very closely,” Inspector O Sé told the judge.