An army veteran from Watford who saw active service in Afghanistan dealt cocaine to pay off a drug debt.
John Brindley, 41, of the YMCA, Charter Place, Watford, suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), became addicted and was coerced into drug dealing.
On June 29 last year, the police stopped a Mercedes in Watford that led them to an address in Bushey, where Brindley was staying.
There the officers found Brindley and 10 wraps of cocaine, with 82 per cent purity.
He handed over £160 saying: “This is from dealing,” said Philip Misner prosecuting.
Mr Misner said it was accepted by the prosecution that Brindley played a lesser role in drug supply.
Brindley appeared for sentence at St Albans Crown Court having pleaded guilty to possessing a class A dug with intent to supply.
The court heard Brindley was being supported by Op NOVA, the forces charity that helps ex-service personnel who are in contact with the justice system.
He had seen active service in Afghanistan and had been prescribed medication for PTSD from an army doctor.
Recorder Ian Stern KC said Brindley, who is on universal credit, said the prosecution had accepted he was coerced into drug dealing.
The judge passed an 18-month jail sentence suspended for 18 months. Brindley must complete 100 hours of unpaid work and 20 rehabilitation days.
0 Comments