[A] DEBT-laden man caught with heroin and cocaine in Carlisle was asked to deal the drugs in exchange for his arrears being cut, a judge has heard.
Thomas James Powell, 23, appeared at the city’s crown court earlier today (TUES). He admitted possessing both class A heroin and cocaine, with intent to supply them, on February 26. On that date, Powell is said to have been detained on the outskirts of Carlisle city centre.
Powell had admitted his guilt on a written basis, said prosecutor Beccy McGregor, who stated: “He was in a significant amount of debt. As a result of that debt he was asked to take a certain course of action.
“He was given a mobile phone and he was asked to deal drugs.” This was on the understanding his debt would be cut, the court heard.
Ms McGregor said a full download report for that phone would be needed before the prosecution decided whether or not to accept Powell’s plea basis.
Judge Barbara Forrester ordered that the download report should be made available “within two weeks”.
Judge Forrester adjourned the case until May 4. In the meantime Powell – said to be a man of previous good character from Steers Croft, Liverpool – was remanded in custody.
