A 24-YEAR-OLD man was found to be in possession of illegal drugs after police detected a “strong smell” of cannabis coming from inside his car, Fermanagh Magistrates Court has heard.

Mark Winston Bogle, of Killycappy Road, Croneen, Lack, pleaded guilty to possessing a Class B controlled drug, namely herbal cannabis, and a Class C controlled drug, namely diazepam, on February 4 this year.

The court heard that police stopped a vehicle being driven by the defendant in the Lack area. After detected a “strong smell” of cannabis coming from inside the vehicle, officers carried out a search.

Four grams of herbal cannabis was uncovered, along with 20 diazepam tablets. During an interview at the roadside, the defendant made a full admission to the offences.

He told officers that he knew what the substances were and that they were for his own personal use.

Defending solicitor, Michael Fahy, told the court that there was “no suggestion” of usage of either drug to impair his client’s driving.

He said that if the police had suspected that Bogle was under the influence they would have carried out roadside impairment tests.

Mr Fahy said the defendant had “no hesitation” in admitting his culpability.

He added that Bogle, who lived at home, was in “long-term employment”.

Refusing an application for legal aid in the case, deputy district judge Hamill observed: “If he can spend money on cannabis, he can spend money for legal representation.”

The judge imposed fines of £120 on each charge and also ordered Bogle to pay a £15 offender levy.