Seaton aunt and nephew in drug raid

A SEATON aunt and nephew have been found guilty of possessing Class B drugs, following a police raid.

Ricky Lee Young, 24, and Susan Gibbs Holden, 43, of Eyewell Green, appeared separately before Central Devon Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, August 25.

Young, who pleaded guilty to possessing 7.91 grams of amphetamine and 30.15 grams of cannabis resin, was sentenced to nine weeks imprisonment.

Holden, who represented herself in court, pleaded guilty to possessing 5.9 grams of cannabis and 2 grams of amphetamine. She was given a conditional discharge.

In her defence, she said she was no longer using drugs and trying to turn her life around with a course in alternative therapy.

Holden later attended Young's hearing and burst into tears when he was sent to prison - after he opted for a custodial sentence in a bid to stay clean.

Prosecuting, Karen Ball said police had found four people at the address on Tuesday, August 4.

Young said the drugs had been for personal use. The quantity of his amphetamine was valued at �70, and the cannabis at �80.

He said it was for personal use during a police interview.

The court heard Young had 10 offences under breach of discharge, including theft, public order, and possession of amphetamine and cannabis - for which he could be re-sentenced.

In mitigation, Kate Scott said Young's previous conviction was almost entirely drug-related and that he had since contacted the Exeter Drugs Project for support.

She added that he assisted the police's search of the house, pointing out items.

She said: "The amount of drugs found was relatively small and it was all for personal use. He has been addicted to amphetamine for 10 years, which is quite a significant amount of time for somebody of that age."

She added Young had stopped using drugs, for about one week, for the first time in around two years. She said he was now living with his father - to get away from a crowd of friends who took drugs in Seaton.

Ms Scott said Young had promise of employment in scaffolding, as long as he stayed off the drugs.

Sentencing guidelines put forward included a financial penalty or community service, but Young opted for a custodial sentence.

Probation officer, Peter Emmen, said Young was clear about his decision and felt it was the best way to stay clean.

He added: "He intends using cannabis in the foreseeable future. He is not prepared to address that."

The court ordered the forfeiture and destruction of the drugs.