Overdose drama

Paramedics rush to victim of dangerous ‘Nexus’

An overdose led to a convicted drug abuser being nailed for possession of a dangerous stimulant.

Hapless David McGregor, 32, sparked a 999 emergency when he collapsed in a close at Ferguslie Walk after taking ‘ Bromo’ or ‘Nexus,’ an illegal synthetic drug often bought over the internet.

Paisley Sheriff Court heard yesterday that paramedics and cops were scrambled to the scene when he took ill outside his girlfriend’s flat, which is in the same common close where he lives.

However during his admission and treatment at hospital a bag of white powder fell out of his pocket, leading to his being done for possession of a Class A drug, also known as 2CB.

Fiscal depute Hazel Emmerson told the court : “Police were contacted by the ambulance department and asked to attend the locus following a suspected drug overdose to do with the accused.

“The locus was the home address of his partner, which is the same close as the accused’s home address.

“Po l i c e attended wi t h paramedics who treated the accused, and in the course of hospital treatment, they were required to search him where they recovered a bag of white powder.”

Cops sent the drugs for analysis, but did not caution and charge the accused amid concerns for his welfare, until after he was discharged.

McGregor, who has convictions for drug dealing, pleaded guilty to the possession of a Class A drug, namely 2CB or 2CHk, at Ferguslie Walk on September 10, 2016.

The drug is particularly dangerous when mixed with other substances.

It often comes in capsules, but can be sold as white powder or as small pills.

Some users take it with other rave drugs such as ecstasy.

Defence agent Charlie McCusker said: “He simply took too much and that is symbolic of how he was at that time.

“The accused was sentenced to 11 months imprisonment on another matter when that sentence was imposed on April 28.

“He has one matter outstanding before the courts and that matter was deferred until September when the case is due to call before Sheriff Susan Sinclair.”

Mr McCusker added: “Mr McGregor has a long standing drug problem and it would be a matter for the court to see if he were suitable for Drug Testing and Treatment Order.”

Sheriff Robert Vaughan deferred matters until September 4 where McGregor will learn of his fate.