A man expressed excitement upon learning he had avoided incarceration despite being found with 20kg of cannabis at an airport. Paul Barrett, a former soldier, was discovered with cannabis and a kilogram of ketamine as he collected his luggage at Newcastle Airport. When questioned, Barrett admitted to having “some weed” due to debts from cocaine and gambling issues.
Despite Barrett’s criminal history, including previous drug-related convictions, he received a suspended prison sentence at Newcastle Crown Court. Customs officers uncovered the drugs in his suitcase, consisting of 20.5kg of cannabis resin and 1.12kg of ketamine, valued at £80,000 wholesale.
Barrett, who cited PTSD and addiction issues post-military service, pleaded guilty to charges related to drug importation evasion. In court, he expressed remorse and a desire to turn his life around, emphasizing his responsibilities towards his children and job prospects that require drug testing.
Judge Sarah Mallet granted Barrett a final opportunity, sentencing him to an 18-month suspended term with community service. Barrett, speaking from prison via video-link, reassured the judge of his commitment to change and was overheard celebrating his release with a spirited outburst.