‘no reply’ | 

Dublin man (20) charged over €49k cocaine seizure is granted bail

Adam Uzell of Somerville Green, Crumlin, was charged with unlawful possession of cocaine and possessing it with intent to supply at an address on Bluebell Avenue, Dublin

Yesterday at 18:40

A 20-year-old Dublin man charged over a €49,000 cocaine seizure has been granted bail.

Adam Uzell appeared before Judge Monika Leech at Dublin District Court on Saturday.

Mr Uzell of Somerville Green, Crumlin, was charged with unlawful possession of cocaine and possessing it with intent to supply at an address on Bluebell Avenue, Dublin, on January 26.

Garda Joseph Melvin told the court Mr Uzell “made no reply” when charged.

Solicitor Conor McGreevy confirmed his client consented to bail conditions sought by the Garda.

However, the defence challenged the State’s application for the court to require a €5,000 independent surety.

Garda Melvin told the judge that it was based on the value of the drugs. He added that a certificate of analysis had been obtained and alleged “the value of the drugs is €49,000 of cocaine, and he was in possession of €4,500 in cash at the time of the incident”.

The defence cited case law that it was not proportionate to tie the bail amount to the alleged value of the seizure.

The Garda agreed with the solicitor that the accused had no prior convictions or warrant history.

Mr McGreevy said his client has the presumption of innocence, and his passport and the cash had also been seized as part of the investigation.

The court heard a family member had €2,000 available.

Judge Leech set bail but required a €3,000 cash lodgement.

He must obey a curfew, sign on regularly at a Garda station, reside at an alternative address furnished to the court, and not apply for travel documents.

Judge Leech remanded him to appear again next week.

Mr Uzell, yet to indicate a plea, was granted legal aid after the judge noted he had no income.