Home detention for reformed addict

A Nelson mother has been granted home detention after a noticeable change of attitude since she menaced a Christchurch drug dealer who sold rock salt instead of crystal meth.

People have noticed Ursula Addie Case’s improved appearance since she was arrested 18 months ago, with defence counsel Serina Bailey saying the 33-yearold had been ‘‘clean’’ since.

In her video-interview with police, she appeared to be severely affected by drugs or alcohol or both, Judge Bernadette Farnan said as Case was sentenced in a video-link-up court session on Thursday.

‘‘You presented as someone who had a clear drug addiction problem,’’ the judge said, who remarked on her improved appearance.

Case was in the Nelson District Court with Judge Farnan, while the Crown and defence counsel made submissions from Christchurch.

Case was found guilty in March, at a trial in Christchurch, of assaulting the drug dealer with intent to rob her.

Three offenders believed the dealer had sold them rock salt instead of methamphetamine. They made contact over Facebook to lure her to an Armagh St house where she was threatened to try to recover the $300.

The other two offenders pleaded guilty separately and were jailed: Chad Adam Carrington, 25, for two years, and Casey Marie Chamberlain, 22, for one year and 10 months.

After her arrest, Case was held in custody for nine months – the equivalent of an 18-month jail term.

Earlier this year, she was arrested on charges of possession of a pipe for using drugs, and possession of an offensive weapon.

She denied being in possession, but pleaded guilty to the charges on Thursday when the weapon charge was downgraded to one of having a knife in a public place.

Case was sentenced to two-and-a-half months’ home detention.