Drug dealer in custody

Garry Paul Sammons, 36, appeared in Masterton District Court yesterday and pleaded guilty to charges of possession of cannabis plant and cannabis oil for supply.

A Wairarapa marijuana dealer and user told police his drug habit began when he was just 10-years-old.

Garry Paul Sammons, 36, appeared in Masterton District Court yesterday and pleaded guilty to charges of possession of cannabis plant and cannabis oil for supply.

On July 24, police searched Sammons home and discovered several cannabis "tinnies" which usually sell for about $20.

In Sammon's bedroom was $1600 cash mostly made up of $20 notes. More cannabis and some cannabis oil was found in the lounge and a pot with cannabis oil was discovered in the kitchen, prosecuting Sergeant Garry Wilson said.

Sammons told police he had a marijuana habit from when he was 10-years-old and sold cannabis from his home address to friends and associates.

He said he sold between 10 to 20 tinnies a day and claimed the cannabis oil was for his own use.

Sammons said the cash was savings put aside by him and his partner to visit their daughter in the South Island.

On August 29, Sammon's house was again searched by police. More cannabis, cannabis oil and $720, in mostly $20 notes, was found. The cannabis oil was packaged in pill capsules and snaplock containers. Sammons said all the cannabis material was his, for him to smoke. He said the cash was a loan from his sister to help him out.

Judge Tony Walsh convicted Sammons and remanded him in custody until October 14 for sentencing.