A Derry man has been sentenced to 26 months in prison for drug supply and driving offences.

Dean James Hutton, 31, of Ebrington Oaks, admitted being concerned in the supply of class A drugs between February 4, 2024 and August 6, 2024. He also admitted possessing class A drugs on August 5, 2024.

Hutton further admitted driving while disqualified, taking and driving away a vehicle, and having no insurance on August 5, 2024.

The court heard that on August 5, 2024, at around 10pm, a car was observed crossing white lines in Strathfoyle. Police stopped the car, which was registered to a woman. Hutton was found to have £80 in cash and a quantity of class A drugs. Bicarbonate of soda was also found, which the court heard is believed to be used with class A drugs.

The car belonged to a former partner of Hutton, who had not given permission for him to drive it. Hutton was driving while disqualified and without insurance.

Judge Roseanne McCormick KC said Hutton had 26 previous convictions, 19 of which were drug-related. The court heard that Hutton's drug dealing was above street dealer level and that he had a customer chain, sourcing and supplying drugs to a number of customers.

Hutton was sentenced to a total of 26 months, with half to be served in custody and half on licence. He was also disqualified from driving for two years and fined £250.