20-07-2025
'Family man' was dealing drugs to support his children, court told
Thomas Verbickas (29) was trying to hide cocaine and cannabis when gardaí twice caught him
A 'family man' who turned to drug dealing to support his children while unemployed made a 'very poor choice', his defence solicitor has said.
Thomas Verbickas (29) was trying to hide cocaine and cannabis when gardaí twice caught him on the streets in a 'small-scale operation'.
Judge Susan Fay adjourned the case for a community service assessment, recommending 200 hours instead of an 18-month sentence.
Verbickas, of Belcamp Lane, Coolock, pleaded guilty to possession of drugs with intent to sell or supply.
Dublin District Court heard he was caught hiding €720 of cocaine in a bush after gardaí saw him acting suspiciously at Hampton Wood Lawn, Finglas, on March 13, 2024.
The following April 3, he was seen discarding a package at Hampton Wood Square and it contained €100 of cannabis and €500 of cocaine.
'He's a family man who was trying to support his children and made a very poor choice to engage in this conduct as a way of raising money,' defence solicitor Andrew Broderick said. It was 'to keep himself and his family going'.
The accused had since 'mended his ways, was very remorseful and actively looking for work in construction'.
Verbickas was eager to do community service if required.
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Today's News in 90 Seconds - July 20th
