Man sentenced for apparatus

Self-confessed drug addict Roger Dacosta Jack was recently handed a three-month jail sentence for having cocaine paraphernalia.

The 55-year-old from Ventnor Rockley, Christ Church was sentenced by Magistrate Kim Butcher after he admitted to having a bottle which had a crack to the bottom, white residue on the inside and black substance at the top. He also had a black metal scraper.

Police were on mobile patrol on Sunday June 12 around 5:05 a.m. along Worthing Road, Christ Church when they observed Jack on the compound of a service station in the area. He attempted to walk away as they approached him but he was stopped.

Jack was spoken to about his suspicious behaviour and a search was requested including a backpack that he had in his possession. The apparatus was found after the search was conducted with his consent.

“Officer I use them to smoke cocaine,” said Jack, who is known to the law court.

Addressing Magistrate Butcher he asked for help.

“I am known to the court and I have been fighting that battle for a long time. Actually . . . I came out of prison last year for this and because of a young lady I found myself back on drugs.

“I am asking the court for a little leniency if you can help me . . . so I can get my life back on track,” Jack said while admitting that he had received chances at drug rehabilitation but did not make use of them.

“I just need some help ma’am,” he added.

The magistrate said the convicted man did not qualify for the Verdun House programme which he requested. He was advised to make use of the programme at Dodds.

“If you are serious about needing help make sure  . . . you take the time while in prison and sort yourself out while you are there,” Magistrate Butcher told him.