Police found cannabis at burglary victim’s home

A father who sold small amounts of cannabis has been given a 12-month community order by a judge at Canterbury Crown Court.

Ben Clifton, 32, of Alfred Close, Ashford, had admitted supplying the drug at an earlier hearing.

Isobel Ascherson, prosecuting, said the offence came to light following a serious burglary at Clifton’s house by armed men. The police were called and phones were examined and it became apparent that Clifton was supplying cannabis in mainly £10 packets.

Natasha Spreadborough, defending, said Clifton had never been in trouble with the police before. “This moment has crystallised his future,” she told the court.

Miss Spreadborough added that Clifton had moved away from the Folkestone area to Ashford and had found full-time work whereas he had been struggling before.

“It is anticipated that he will progress through the company,” Miss Spreadborough said. She added that Clifton and his family had faced two miscarriages before having their daughter who had lived but was premature and suffers from several conditions.

“He is no longer using cannabis and this was the biggest wakeup call you can imagine,” Miss Spreadborough said.

Judge Nigel Van Der Bijl told Clifton: “I do not need to tell you how dangerous drugs are. But you are off drugs now I am pleased to say.”

In addition to the community order Clifton was told to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work and was given a 7.30pm-5.30am curfew for two months.