A man from Hull avoided a prison sentence after attempting to import 11g of heroin into the island.
John Ansell (49) was stopped by Customs officials on 5 September this year having arrived at the Harbour by ferry.
A search of his vehicle uncovered the stash of heroin as well as a small amount of herbal cannabis. The maximum street value of the drugs was almost £5,000.
However, it was accepted by the court that the drugs were for Ansell’s personal use rather than for onward sale.
Advocate Chris Baglin, defending, told the court that his client had developed a “really difficult” opiate addiction after breaking his leg in a rugby match in his early 20s.
He added that Ansell, who he described as an “accomplished guitarist” with experience playing in a Black Sabbath tribute band, was a “popular member” of his home community.
Advocate Baglin asked the court to allow his client to “return home” to the UK and serve a probation order with a drug-based rehabilitation requirement.
Commissioner Alan Binnington, presiding, agreed to Advocate Baglin’s request and imposed an 18-month probation order to be completed in the UK.
Customs acting senior manager Matt Lewis said: “The importation of Class A drugs into Jersey, no matter the quantity, is taken extremely seriously.
“This case highlights the important role our border officers play in protecting our Island’s community. We remain committed to detecting and preventing the importation of illegal drugs and holding those responsible to account.”
