Fined for obstructing drugs search

A MAN who attempted to throw drugs into the sea at Lerwick’s Victoria Pier before being searched by the police has been fined £750.

Kevin Hughson, from Cunningsburgh, previously admitted intentionally obstructing two police officers and throwing an item into the sea after being informed he was being detained for a drugs search on 14 June.

The 34 year old also pled guilty to possessing amphetamine at the same location on the same day.

Procurator fiscal Duncan Mackenzie told Lerwick Sheriff Court on Wednesday that Hughson tried to throw the drugs into the water before saying he had nothing on him.

However, the amphetamine didn’t make it into the sea and was eventually recovered by police, who were initially directed to Hughson by onlookers.

Mackenzie said the amount of drugs was a “small personal quantity”.

Defence agent Tommy Allan said his client had just been given the amphetamine prior to the search and had “panicked”.

At the time of the offence Hughson was “struggling” with drug use, but he is now on an upwards curve, the solicitor said.

Sheriff Philip Mann said the main charge was “quite serious” as it disrupted the police in their efforts to counter the distribution of drugs in Shetland.