Corkman who left Naval Service became addicted to Oxycontin, court told

Following an accident the man became addicted to Oxycontin which was prescribed to him and he now faces theft-related charges.

A former member of the Naval Service who was honourably discharged for health reasons following an accident became addicted to Oxycontin which was prescribed to him and now he is in custody on theft-related charges.

Terrence McSweeney, aged 39, of Boyne Crescent, Mayfield, Cork, pleaded guilty to charges of theft and handling stolen property when he appeared at Cork District Court by video link from prison.

Defence solicitor Frank Buttimer said the accused suffered the addiction to prescribed Oxycontin — a drug which has been the subject of controversy internationally.

“His family have come to court to support him. He has a very, very good background. This situation has overwhelmed him in terms of addiction. He has no record for this kind of thing.

“He is acutely aware he is subject to a suspended sentence. He is intent on going to Aiséirí to deal with his addiction,” Mr Buttimer said.

Terrence McSweeney pleaded guilty to two charges. The most recent occurred on February 25 at Drawbridge Street when he was caught handling €200 worth of stolen property from JD Sports.

On July 17 last year, he admitted stealing a food blender, a Lego set, and ear pods from Tesco, Paul Street.

Sergeant John Kelleher said that when gardaí first approached the accused in relation to both incidents he ran away but was caught each time after a short chase on foot.

Judge Mary Dorgan imposed a €250 fine on him for that theft and remanded him in custody until March 11 on the charge of handling stolen property. The judge said this latter adjournment was also for consideration of a suspended sentence which could be triggered by the latest offences.

Mr Buttimer expressed the hope that the defendant could be released on March 11 to enable him to commence a detoxification programme.