Cannabis duo ran away from police

Scott Dumigan (37) and Peter Valentine (39) had been detained a short distance away, had been searched and said the drugs were for their own use.

Burnley magistrates were told the pair were offered cautions for their crimes, on condition both attended drugs sessions, but they didn’t attend for assessment.

Mr Nick Dearing defending Dumigan, who has 192 previous offences on his record, said both had been foolish.

Dumigan had been suffering from anxiety and depression which led to agoraphobia.

He received a letter from the “conditional caution people”, which was addressed as Chorley.

The solicitor continued: “He gave up, saying there was no way he was able to get to Chorley. What he didn’t do is look down and see an appointment had been made for him in Burnley.”

Mr Dearing said: “Mr Valentine wasn’t quite as daft. He had been in employment, which clashed with the drugs session and rather than re-arrange it, he listened to Mr Dumigan and decided not to go.”

Dumigan, of Branch Road and Valentine, of Hollingreave Road, both Burnley, each admitted possessing cannabis in the town, last October 13th. Valentine also pleaded guilty to possessing amphetamine.

Each was given a six- month conditional discharge and must pay a £20 victim surcharge. Valentine was also ordered to pay £85 costs.