A Facebook post led to the arrest of a man found with a shotgun, cannabis, and a pepperball gun. He received a suspended sentence.
Police visited Dillon’s home in Darlington and were concerned about the illegal firearm. Dillon, aged 48, ran away, but officers caught and arrested him on December 2, 2022. They then searched his house, finding a shotgun and cannabis plants growing inside.
Dillon told police about the air weapon, stating he used it “for paintballing.” It was an Umarex T4E 68 caliber. His lawyer argued it wasn’t what police thought. The lawyer added that it fires pepperballs, which people can readily buy online. He spoke at court on Dillon’s behalf.
The lawyer stated Dillon had smoked cannabis since age 11 and only grew it for his own use. However, police found £4,730 worth of cannabis and evidence that Dillon sold packaged cannabis to “other dealers and users.”
The lawyer asked the judge for a final chance, noting Dillon had never been to prison.
Dillon admitted possessing a prohibited weapon, intending to supply a class B drug, and producing cannabis. He had received a suspended sentence in 2016 for growing and dealing cannabis. In 2020, he had 18 more plants and received a community order.
The judge stated Dillon was a cannabis dealer and cited Dillon’s main regret was getting caught. He noted Dillon had received benefits for years and smoked cannabis for decades. Medical reports showed a difficult childhood, and the judge discussed possible PTSD. Dillon’s cannabis addiction needed addressing.
The judge sentenced Dillon to prison for 12 months, suspended for two years. Dillon must attend 30 rehabilitation days and a 12-month drug course to tackle his drug addiction.