Dean Sutherland apprehended with over 1.3 kilograms of cannabis in Tain.
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Man arrested in Tain for cannabis possession valued over £20,000
In a recent incident in Tain, a 31-year-old man named Dean Sutherland was apprehended by police after attempting to flee upon spotting uniformed officers. The police discovered that Sutherland was in possession of cannabis with an estimated street value exceeding £20,000.
This alarming case highlights ongoing concerns regarding drug-related activities in the area.
Details of the incident
The events unfolded on March 5 of the previous year when officers were conducting a foot search for an unrelated matter. Upon noticing the police presence, Sutherland quickly turned and ran back through the Mansefield Estate.
Officers pursued him and eventually located him in an alleyway off Scotsburn Road. During the chase, they observed that Sutherland exhibited signs of drug use, including dilated pupils and excessive sweating, alongside a strong odor of cannabis.
Police investigation and findings
Upon apprehending Sutherland, the police conducted a thorough search, which led to the recovery of a rucksack containing two self-seal bags filled with cannabis. The total weight of the drugs was more than 1.3 kilograms, which, if sold in one-gram deals, could fetch approximately £20,875. Additionally, officers found an iPhone that Sutherland denied owning, raising further questions about his involvement in drug-related activities.
Legal proceedings and consequences
During his appearance at Inverness Sheriff Court, Sutherland admitted to a single charge of being concerned in the supply of a class B drug. His solicitor, Graham Mann, argued that Sutherland’s role was merely to hold onto the drugs, emphasizing that he was using drugs at the time and resorted to this activity as a means of supporting his habit. The court, however, took a stern view of the situation, with Sheriff Gary Aitken expressing disapproval of Sutherland’s involvement in the drug supply chain.
As a result, Sutherland was placed on a community payback order, which mandates that he remain under supervision for 18 months and complete 150 hours of unpaid work in the community. This case serves as a reminder of the serious legal repercussions associated with drug possession and distribution, particularly in communities like Tain.
