Synthetic cannabis found in man’s bedroom

A judge has chided a man caught selling synthetic cannabis for worrying more about his own reputation than his customers’ health.

Police searching a house in Auroa, south Taranaki, on June 1 discovered a bag containing 8.3 grams of synthetic cannabis, some new, unused ziplock bags and electronic scales in Logan Esterfarn Rangipunga’s bedroom, police prosecutor Sergeant Steve Hickey said.

Analysis of Rangipunga’s cell phone identified dealing activity, where he discussed purchasing an ounce of synthetic cannabis (28 grams) with the intention of selling it off in $50 bags.

‘‘Further messages were located where the defendant has offered to sell and sold synthetic cannabis,’’ Hickey said.

Rangipunga, 27, pleaded guilty in Ha¯wera District Court on Tuesday to one charge of selling a non-approved psychoactive substance.

Judge Harrison warned Rangipunga that the charge carried a two-year maximum prison sentence. ‘‘What concerns me is you only sold a couple of bags because you were worried the quality was poor and would affect your reputation,’’ she said. ‘‘You had no concern for the health of the people using this incredibly harmful drug.’’

She sentenced him to 180 hours of community work and ordered the destruction of the synthetic cannabis and drugrelated utensils found in the search.