Reformed man jailed over drugs

A 27-year-old man was jailed for eight months over the possession of heroin and ecstasy pills five years ago.

Jonathan Mifsud admitted to possessing 38 pills in a case before Magistrate Lawrence Quintano. The pills were discovered in his socks during a search by two police officers outside the nightclub Tattingers on April 23, 2005.

In his statement to the police, Mr Mifsud said the pills were for his personal use but said that he was willing to sell them if a prospective buyer came along.

Mr Mifsud also admitted to heroin possession. The court took into consideration that Mr Mifsud had since reformed. His parents testified that he had also started a course at the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology.

Probation officer Marietta Lanzon said that Mr Mifsud started taking drugs when in Form 4 and heroin at 19, but that he worked regularly and had a good upbringing.

Magistrate Lawrence Quintano said that no one swallowed 38 ecstasy pills in a single night and that therefore the intention was to sell them. He jailed him for eight months and fined him €680.

Police Superintendent Norbert Ciappara prosecuted.