A man expressed relief when he found out he had avoided jail time after being discovered with 20kg of cannabis at an airport. Paul Barrett, a former soldier, was caught with cannabis and ketamine by customs officers at Newcastle Airport after arriving on a Jet2 flight from Faro on May 4.
Barrett, who has a history of drug-related convictions, admitted to possessing cannabis to cover debts from cocaine and gambling habits. Despite his criminal record, he received a suspended prison sentence at Newcastle Crown Court and jubilantly assured the judge he would not disappoint.
During the inspection, Barrett admitted to carrying the drugs, explaining that the suitcase containing 20.5kg of cannabis resin and 1.12kg of ketamine was given to him. The drugs were valued at £80,000 wholesale but would have fetched a higher price on the street.
In his defense, Barrett, who suffers from PTSD and addiction issues, acknowledged his mistakes and emphasized his desire to turn his life around for the sake of his children. The court sentenced him to 18 months suspended for two years, with 100 hours of community service.
Barrett, appearing via video-link from prison, expressed gratitude to the judge and vowed to make amends for his actions. Upon being informed of his release, he exclaimed in celebration before leaving the virtual courtroom.