Taxi man used his car to deliver drugs

Canice Joseph Cunningham (42), of Agahmore Park, Strathfoyle, pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine with intent to supply and possessing Tramadol with intent to supply on December 19, 2014.

Cunningham’s taxi was stopped at a picnic area on the Foreglen Road when it was searched by police who seized multiple bags containing a white powder.

In total over 63 grams of Cocaine were seized, with a street value of £3,161.

Police also found a paper bag in the car containing 116 capsules of Tramadol.

Cunningham’s home address was also searched and police found £2,600 and 480 euro.

During police interview, the defendant said that he bought the cocaine and bagged it to monitor how much he was taking.

He admitted that he would given some cocaine to friends if they needed it.

The court was told police viewed the defendant as a ‘street dealer’ who used his taxi to deliver drugs.

Defence counsel Nicki Rountree told the court her client was a hard working individual and someone who was of particularly good character.

She said Cunningham began to use cocaine recreationally but he had developed a dependency on the substance.

Judge Philip Babington imposed a nine month sentence, which he suspended for three years. Judge Babington also ordered some of the money seized to be donated to charity.