A construction worker who swallowed a deal of heroin during a drug search is to be given the chance of probation. Derek McDonnell (27), of Crestwood Park, Ashbourne, pleaded guilty at Dublin District Court to obstructing a search at Ballymun Town Centre on April 7th last year.
Garda Dan Whelan said the man swallowed the drug before gardai could restrain him. He later admitted it was a £20 bag of heroin. Ms Anne O'Connor solicitor, defending, said her client had been drug free for four months, had a job in construction and had no previous convictions. Judge Gerard Haughton said he would dismiss the charge under the Probation Act if McDonnell paid £150 to the court poor box by July 6th.