Couple's collection of drugs 'amateurish'

THE CO Clare parents of a two-year-old child face a possible 10-year sentence after being caught in Dublin handing over cash …

THE CO Clare parents of a two-year-old child face a possible 10-year sentence after being caught in Dublin handing over cash they brought from Limerick to exchange for heroin with a street value of almost €50,000.

The couple got lost in Finglas as they headed back to Limerick with the drugs before gardaí pulled them over.

They told gardaí they were in financial difficulties and were to get €500 from criminals for the drugs run.

Ross Buckley (22) and Barbara Campion (23), both with an address at Delacey Park, Shannon, Co Clare, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of the heroin for sale or supply at North Road, Finglas.

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After the couple were arrested, they each attempted to take responsibility for the offence and absolve the other.

Their co-accused, Gerard Ledwidge (26), of Cappagh Road, Finglas, also pleaded guilty to having heroin for sale or supply on the same date. He is the father of a 15-month-old child.

Judge Katherine Delahunt remanded the three on bail until January 21st next when she will finalise sentencing.

Campion told gardaí she had come from Limerick with €8,000 in cash and guessed she had to collect heroin. She and Buckley were to get €500.

Campion, who worked as a catering assistant, said she did not have a drug problem and would not name the person she was working for.

Buckley initially told gardaí he was committing the offence to clear a drug debt but later admitted he had done the run in return for cash payment.

He said they were to return to Limerick with the drugs for a drop-off but he did not realise the value of the drugs.

Det Garda Richard Byrne agreed with Campion's legal counsel Grainne O'Neill that the couple's role was "amateurish in nature".