Jail term for Cork man who gifted cocaine to friends 

A 58-year-old man who said he was supplying cocaine for free to a few friends was given a seven-month jail term.

Judge Philip O’Leary noted from the facts of the case that the accused man, Laurence (Larry) O’Sullivan of Palmbury Orchard, Togher, Cork, had been in custody since the date of the drugs seizure in October 2024.

The sentence imposed was backdated to October, so in effect the sentence has already been served.

The 58-year-old pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine and possession of the drug for sale or otherwise supply to others.

Detective Garda Emmet Long said a warrant was executed to search the defendant’s home last October 9, following which there was a seizure of a quantity of white powder.

“At interview, he was very pleasant,” Det Garda Long said. “He did take responsibility for it. He said it was a mixing agent and that there was a small amount of cocaine.”

On forensic analysis, it was confirmed that 50g of the powder was the mixing agent and 1g was cocaine. The value of the cocaine was €100. At interview, O’Sullivan said he was supplying friends.

Judge O’Leary clarified that the accused was remanded in custody since October on charges related to €100 worth of cocaine, as the mixing agent is not an illegal substance.

Defence solicitor Eddie Burke confirmed this was the case. He said O’Sullivan had consent to High Court bail, but was unable to take it up, and that there was a parole issue arising out of an unrelated case where he previously served a very lengthy sentence.

Mr Burke quoted from the garda interview where O’Sullivan said: “I am taking it myself. I do give out a few bags to friends [without charging them]. They offer, but I don’t take it.”

Judge O’Leary said: “You are saying he supplied it for free”, and Mr Burke agreed.

Mr Burke said that the accused had difficulty with life at liberty following a long time in custody.