Scott Anthony Johnson, 40, was sentenced to 16 months for importing cannabis.[1] He pleaded guilty to importation of drugs, attempting to possess the drug with intent to supply, and being concerned in its supply.[1] Eight months of the 16-month term was imposed for breaching his licence while on probation for a separate offence.[1]
On February 8, Isle of Man Customs and Excise intercepted a parcel sent to the island from America.[1] The parcel was addressed to a Bradley Williams in Ramsey and held 506.4 grams of cannabis, which police valued at £10,128.[1] Police replaced the cannabis with a dummy package and delivered it to the intended address.[1] Johnson was the only person present there and, asked if he was Bradley Williams, answered yeah, yeah.[1] Police then searched the property and found the package in a rucksack.[1] Johnson, who lives in Furman Close in Douglas, was arrested and gave no-comment answers in interview.[1] Examination of his mobile phone found evidence of drug dealing and a tracking number for the parcel.[1]
He said he owed £20,000 in drug debt to the dealer who sent it and had been promised the debt would be wiped out if he accepted delivery.[1] His advocate said he had supplied only smaller amounts to friends for medicinal use and to fund his own use.[1] His own use was described as self-medication for mental health, arthritis in both wrists and back pain from a slipped disc.[1] The court heard he had previous convictions for importing cannabis and MDMA in 2019 and 2002.[1] At an earlier hearing Deputy High Bailiff James Brooks declined summary jurisdiction and committed him to the Court of General Gaol Delivery for sentencing.[2]