Kildare man in custody claims to have contracted TB, court hears

A MAN claimed he could not take up bail due to a tuberculosis diagnosis at Naas District Court last week.

Christy Lammon (58) with an address in Coney Meadows, Coneyboro, Athy was appearing at Naas District Court by videolink from custody, where he is being held on five related drug charges.

However, when it was his turn to appear, there was no sign of the defendant from the video suite in Cloverhill, and so judge Desmond Zaidan enquired as to the delay.

“He’s coming from the D2 landing,” said a prison officer.

“Is that something special?” asked the judge.

“It’s the medical wing,” revealed the officer.

“I am awaiting instructions,” said his solicitor Jackie McManus, “but he is on bail with consent (to be released).” 

“The DPP has ruled summary on everything,” noted Sergeant Ruth Coleman, meaning trial in the district court was satisfactory.

“Have you got a phone number on D2 so Ms McManus can phone her client, because in fairness he has been in custody for some time (since 24 June),” noted the judge.

The judge then put the case to second calling to allow Ms McManus time to consult with her client.

After lunch, Mr Lammon case was called again, and the court learned that he was facing three charges of possession of cannabis, cocaine and heroin at his home on 7 May, as well as a charge of possession with intent to supply when found with €686 worth of heroin at the same location on 23 June.

“He has made full admissions,” noted the sergeant, before the judge asked him why he hadn’t taken up his bail.

“I didn’t take it up because I got TB,” he revealed.

“Where did you pick up this TB, Christy?” asked the judge.

“I don’t know, but I was in Tallaght (University Hospital) for five weeks, and I’m on 18 tablets a day,” he replied.

Because he had pleaded guilty, Sgt Coleman was able to tell the court that the defendant had 26 previous convictions, seven of which were for Section 15.

“Ah, Christy!” said an almost disappointed judge.

“Why are you still messing with illicit drugs?” he asked.

“Addiction is a powerful thing,” said Mr Lammon.

“How old were you when you started?” asked the judge “I was 35, I was very young,” said Mr Lammon. “My father died, and I started.” 

“Any family?” asked the judge.

“I have a son in the UK, and he’s doing very well – he’s working in the Tate Gallery,” came an answer.

“He has accommodation waiting at home, and I’m seeking his release today,” interjected Ms McManus.

“Are they treating you well? Would you be better off inside or out?” asked the judge but was only answered with a small laugh.

“You could hear the pause there!” smile the judge.

“If I could refer you to a rehab centre I would, but unfortunately we haven’t got that far yet for people with drug addiction in Ireland,” commiserated the judge.

“I know new legislation allows gardaí to send first-time offenders to the HSE for counselling, but that’s nowhere near enough.

“We’ll put you on a peace bond for 12 months, and my registrar will email this to your governor.

“If you misbehave on this, I will jail you for two years.

“Your lungs are failing you, and you don’t look your best, but don’t let the evil power of illicit drugs kill you. I don’t want that for you.

“You’ve said something about addiction that drove it home in a blunt and depressing way.”