Police in Liverpool recently made a significant drug seizure when they caught a convicted burglar with thousands of pounds worth of cannabis just four months after his release from prison. Michael Colligan, a resident of Wilderspool, appeared before Liverpool Crown Court and pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cannabis.
Police Seize Cannabis Worth Thousands of Pounds
During the court proceedings, prosecutor Shannon Stewart detailed how on July 4, 2023, police officers observed Colligan entering and leaving an address with a yellow JD Sports bag. The following day, officers searched Colligan’s residence and found the yellow bag in the garden shed, which contained four packages of cannabis.
In the first package, authorities discovered 91.5 grams of cannabis, valued between £540 and £820. The second package contained a larger quantity of the class B drug, with 110.9 grams worth an estimated £640 to £1,000. The final two packages yielded a combined total of 35.5 grams of cannabis, valued between £270 and £360. In total, 230.9 grams of cannabis were seized from Colligan, with an estimated street value of £1,450 to £2,180.
Ms. Stewart informed the court that drug experts analyzed the contents of the bag and concluded that it contained everything necessary for selling cannabis. Two mobile phones were also found inside the property, along with a piece of paper containing figures and £10 in cash. One of the phones, a Samsung, contained text messages believed to be related to drug sales, as well as a Snapchat account listing drugs available for purchase.
Prolific Offender with Previous Convictions
The court was informed that Colligan had 25 previous convictions, including a 26-month sentence for breaking into the home of a mother and daughter while they were in prison and stealing their car. When police attempted to arrest him, Colligan managed to evade capture by hopping a fence and went on the run for 18 days.
Despite being released in March, Colligan was recalled to prison and remanded in custody. During the sentencing, defense attorney Daniel Wood argued that Colligan was already serving a sentence at the time of the drug offense and requested that any new sentence be served concurrently.
Judge Kelly Bond sentenced Colligan to seven months in prison, to be served concurrently with his existing sentence. She also ordered the forfeiture and destruction of the drugs, paraphernalia, and mobile phones found in Colligan’s possession.
Impact of Drug Offenses on Communities
The case of Michael Colligan highlights the ongoing issue of drug offenses in communities and the impact they have on society. Drug-related crimes not only pose a threat to public safety but also contribute to a range of social issues, including addiction, health problems, and criminal behavior.
The illegal drug trade fuels organized crime and violence, leading to significant harm to individuals and communities. Drug trafficking and distribution networks often target vulnerable populations, including young people and those struggling with addiction, exacerbating existing social problems.
Law enforcement agencies across the country work tirelessly to combat drug offenses and dismantle criminal networks involved in drug trafficking. Seizures such as the one involving Michael Colligan are a crucial part of these efforts, disrupting the flow of illegal drugs and preventing harm to communities.
Rehabilitation and Recidivism
The case of Michael Colligan also raises important questions about rehabilitation and recidivism in the criminal justice system. Despite serving a previous sentence for burglary, Colligan was caught engaging in drug-related offenses shortly after his release from prison.
Recidivism, or the tendency for individuals to reoffend after being released from prison, is a significant challenge facing the criminal justice system. Factors such as lack of employment opportunities, substance abuse, and inadequate support services can contribute to high rates of recidivism among ex-offenders.
Efforts to address recidivism include providing education, vocational training, and rehabilitation programs within prisons to help individuals reintegrate into society upon release. Support services such as housing assistance, mental health treatment, and substance abuse counseling are also critical in reducing the likelihood of reoffending.
Conclusion
The case of Michael Colligan serves as a reminder of the complex issues surrounding drug offenses, recidivism, and the challenges faced by ex-offenders upon their release from prison. Law enforcement agencies, policymakers, and community organizations must work together to address the root causes of criminal behavior and provide support for individuals to prevent reoffending.
Efforts to combat drug offenses and reduce recidivism require a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation strategies. By addressing the underlying factors that contribute to criminal behavior and providing support for individuals seeking to turn their lives around, communities can create a safer and more cohesive society for all.