The Deputy High Bailiff has heard another case in which an offender was caught importing drugs to the island via the post.

Mark Peter Richards, of Waverley Terrace, Ramsey, admitted two counts of production (importation) of drugs to the island.

He had received two class C drugs and was fined £400.

The 34-year-old was also ordered to pay £50 prosecution costs.

Prosecuting advocate Rebecca Cubbon told the court how police were called to the Post Office sorting office on May 13 after a suspicious package was intercepted.

It was addressed to Richards and found to contain 56 diazepam tablets and 56 Pregabalin tablets.

Police arrested him and during a police interview he admitted ordering the pills online, saying they helped him sleep.

The court heard that he has a previous conviction for drug possession in 2019.

Defence advocate Jane Gray said: ’Mr Richards has a history of poor mental health and a chronic back injury.’

Ms Gray said that Richards was prescribed both Pregabalin and diazepam but during the Covid lockdown there had been a mix-up with his prescription which had resulted in him being without medication.

’He was told by the pharmacy to go back to his doctor, however that would led to a delay,’ said the advocate.

Ms Gray said that a close friend of Richards’ had also passed away so he had been unable to sleep.

The advocate said: ’He decided to take it upon himself to order the drugs to replace his usual medication.’

A probation report said that community service was not a suitable option due to Richards’ physical and mental health issues.

Deputy High Bailiff Chris Arrowsmith ordered Richards to pay the fine and costs at a rate of £10 per week, deducted from benefits.

There have been dozens of cases of drugs being sent through the post during the months since lockdown.