Postie stole mail to feed drug habit - court hears

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http://www.derryjournal.com/journal/Pos ... 3190764.jp

A Derry postman opened mail containing cash and stole the money to feed a drug habit, Derry Magistrate's Court has heard.
Paul Porter (26), of 6 Cooleen Park, Derry, admitted interfering with mail contrary to his duty. He further admitted a charge of stealing £20 from an employee of Royal Mail.

He was caught out during a sting operation set up by the Royal Mail after reports that greetings cards had not been delivered.

The court heard on Monday that, on February 7, police were contacted by the Royal Mail alleging that an employee had opened mail and stole money. The manager of Royal Mail in the area later reported that greetings cards containing cash were not being delivered.

On November 28, a Royal Mail investigation team sent five "test letters" containing cash to addresses on Porter's route. The test letters were not delivered to the houses.

Porter was later approached by Royal Mail investigators at Waveney Park and informed of their enquiries.

Defence solicitor, Maoliosa Barr, said his client committed the offences to get money to buy drugs.

"Mr Porter's difficulties began when he started taking cannabis in his teens and that progressed to him taking cocaine. One situation led to another and eventually he couldn't afford the drugs he was taking."

He explained that his client had fallen into a "fairly dangerous vicious circle" as a result of his drug taking and his debt.

Mr. Barr added that "it was only a matter of time before the finger of suspicion was pointed at him" because all of the offences took place on Porter's route.

He said that Porter - who was sacked by the postal service - had since been "drug free" and was in a relationship.

Resident Magistrate Barney McElholm said the offences were very serious. "These were offences not just against his employer but against the community."

Porter was given a four month prison sentence which was suspended for two years and ordered to make a donation of £250 to the Foyle Hospice.