Legal outcome for Ramsgate cannabis seizure
A 46-year-old man from Ramsgate has been handed an 18-month conditional discharge after police discovered over 378 grams of cannabis at his property. James Sansom, who appeared at Margate Magistrates’ Court on July 17, admitted to the possession of the Class B substance.
Police initially encountered Sansom following a "disturbance" at a McDonald’s branch in Tunbridge Wells. A search of his vehicle revealed a small amount of the drug hidden in the steering wheel console. A subsequent search of his home uncovered the remaining stash, which was stored in a vacuum-packed bag alongside various deal bags.
Medical cannabis defence
During the proceedings, it was noted that Sansom claimed the 378.13 grams of cannabis were purchased from a friend to "meet his needs" until he could secure a legal medical prescription. His defence counsel, Paul Shingleton, suggested that the defendant's behaviour at the restaurant was linked to issues with other prescribed medication.
District Judge William Nelson acknowledged the significant quantity of the drug and the presence of packaging materials, but ultimately accepted the defendant's explanation. The judge noted that Sansom had no prior convictions for drug possession.
Under the terms of the conditional discharge, no immediate punishment will be imposed provided that Sansom commits no further offences during the 18-month period. The court ordered the destruction of the seized cannabis and required the defendant to pay court costs and a victim surcharge.
Source: KentOnline
