A 22-year-old Douglas man has been sentenced to community service and probation after admitting dealing cannabis from his garden shed.

Luke Michael Callister, of Lheannagh Park, pleaded guilty to possessing 179 grams of the drug said to be worth £3,580.

Prosecutor Michael Jelski told the court how, on September 12 at 2.10pm, police were called to Callister’s address after a report of him selling cannabis there.

When officers arrived they found a group of men sat in the shed.

Callister came out of the shed and was said to be smelling of cannabis.

A search of the shed found the drugs along with scales and snap bags.

Callister told police: ’It’s all mine. It’s only pot.’

Defence advocate Rebecca Cubbon said in court: ’Mr Callister accepted responsibility at the scene and in interview.

’He is a very young man with no previous convictions and understands he has lost his good character. He is receiving Jobseeker’s Allowance and understands this will impact on his career in the future. This has devastated his family. He is fortunate he has their support.

’He has previously self-referred to Motiv8 to deal with drug problems and is looking into whether he needs to go again.

’He has a had a very short sharp shock in coming to terms with the reality of the situation.’

Ms Cubbon asked that the magistrates follow the recommendation of the probation report which suggested a Combination Order.

’That would allow him to address the problem of his drug use while also punishing him,’ said the advocate.

Magistrates sentenced Callister to perform 100 hours community service and a 12-month probation order.

He must also pay £125 prosecution costs.