Man was dealer for 19 days

A DRUG dealer who ran an illicit cannabis operation from a Perth block of flats was incriminated by a series of tell-tale text messages and suspicious bank statements.

There were barely any drugs at William Stewart’s home when it was raided by police in August 2021.

But the 24-yearold was charged after investigators analysed his mobile phones and financial records.

Father-of-one Stewart appeared at Perth Sheriff Court and admitted being concerned in the supply of the Class-B drug at his home in Viewland Place between July 21 and August 9 2021.

Fiscal depute Stephanie Hendry said investigators executed a search warrant at Stewart’s flat just before 9am on August 9 2021. Cash totalling £350 was recovered from his trouser pockets.

Officers found two sets of scales, a grinder and a box with £17 in cash.

A handwritten note left in the living room said: “I’ve gone back home. I took another G, so I’ll transfer you a tenner when I get home.

“I left you some for a J.” Ms Hendry said bank statements found in the property included regular small transactions of between £10 and £50.

Trace amounts on the scales were later confirmed as cannabis.

Solicitor Linda Clark, defending, said her client had only been involved in dealing for 19 days.

“He had been suffering from depression and taking cannabis to help himself feel better. He was drawn into this activity so that he could get access cannabis.”

Sheriff Alison McKay told Stewart: “You will be aware you are vulnerable to a custodial sentence.”

He was sentenced to 300 hours’ unpaid work.

William Stewart.