Man dealt drug to friend who then died

A MAN has been convicted of dealing ecstasy to a friend who died after taking the drug.

Regan Gemmell, 20, gave Ricky Lindsay the pills at a flat in Glasgow’s Maryhill last November.

The 18-year-old – who had been out earlier watching a Rangers match on TV – later took ill.

Paramedics rushed to the flat, but Ricky never recovered.

Gemmell denied dealing the tablets during a trial at Glasgow Sheriff Court. The security worker insisted Ricky and other friend had “stolen” the drugs from him.

But, Sheriff Paul Brown found him guilty after branding his claims “fanciful”.

Gemmell, also of Maryhill, will be sentenced in the New Year.

It emerged Gemmell had previously been accused of culpable homicide before prosecutors reduced the case to summary proceedings.

Gemmell told the court he had on him that night 10 ecstasy tablets as well as a gram of powdered MDMA. But, he claimed they were just for “personal use”.

Asked by Miss Howie if his friends had instead stolen the drugs from him, he replied: “Yes.”

Quizzed further about the pills, Gemmell said he did not want to turn up at the flat “emptyhanded”.

The first offender was convicted of supplying ecstasy to Ricky, Ross and Cameron Wiley.

Sheriff Brown told him: “I did not believe your evidence and it was fanciful.

“I am satisfied beyond reasonable doubt and I find you guilty of the charge.”

Gemmell had his bail continued as sentencing was adjourned for reports.