A Co Fermanagh man has appeared in court in relation to the discovery of significant amounts of drugs, which he claims he was being forced to store by a criminal gang.
David Lee Taylor (60) from Drumbeg, Enniskillen faces a total of eight charges involving the possession of suspected cocaine and cannabis, being concerned in the supply of cannabis and possessing criminal property.
A police officer told Dungannon Magistrates Court the charges could be connected.
She explained Taylor’s home was searched on January 3 and suspected cocaine with an approximate street value of £3,000 was discovered along with around £600 worth of cannabis.
Deal bags, mobile phones and £1,200 cash was also found. Taylor was arrested and made some admissions during interview.
Objecting to bail the officer said there are concerns Taylor may reoffend and his current address is no longer suitable.
Defence counsel told the court Taylor had put forward his son’s address in Omagh as a possible alternative, however, it later transpired there are also similar investigations on him also.
The defence contended the deal bags are widely available in shops and often used by many people who consume cannabis to “carry it around”.
The court heard the seized mobile phones have not yet been fully examined, but so far no messages relating to drug dealing had been found.
The defence continued: “There were limited admissions but the defendant made the case in clear terms that he was acting under duress.
“He was in fear for his life.”
The officer confirmed Taylor had stated: “He has had pressure put on him by a criminal organisation and believes he is under threat, however, there are no occurrences on the police system to indicate he is being managed for that”.
The defence said: “There’s a presumption of innocence and that’s particularly pertinent in this case.
“The defendant made admissions to possessing some limited amount of drugs, but has put forward a defence of duress.
“He suffers from severe mental health issues including chronic depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and he had a heart transplant seven years ago.
“He is a vulnerable person who was preyed upon by sinister forces to hold these items.”
It was argued with strict conditions bail could be granted.
District Judge Barney McElhom noted a previous relevant conviction in England that goes back some time, but pointed out Taylor has no address for release at present.
“That in itself could be resolved but given he’s claiming to be under pressure from certain individuals who engage in this sort of activity, there’s nothing to say that will be removed and he could be pressured into other acts,” said the judge.
During the court sitting, the address of Taylor’s son was checked for suitability.
The police officer later told the court a check revealed the “address is not suitable as the son is also under investigation over a large quantity of drugs”.
Judge McElhom listed the matter for mention at Enniskillen Magistrates Court later this month.