A FLINTSHIRE man has been spared jail after police raided his home finding a "large" amount of cannabis. 

Kevin Williams, of Ffordd Dyfrdwy, Mostyn, appeared before Mold Crown Court for sentencing on Monday (November 25). 

The 51-year-old had previously admitted being in possession with intent to supply of cannabis, as well as being concerned in the supply of cannabis. 

Laura Knightly, prosecuting, said police executed a drugs warrant at Williams' home on July 20, 2022. They located a "large" quantity of cannabis buds in the kitchen, and in an outbuilding in the back garden. Officers also seized a large amount of cash located in so-called 'snap bags'. 

In total, there were seven buckets of cannabis weighing 3.5 kilograms - with a street value of between £17,000 and £35,000, the court heard. 

In interview, the defendant claimed he'd found the cannabis by a stream and had kept it as he was a cannabis smoker but could no longer afford to buy it. 

However, an analysis of Williams' phone revealed messages indicative of him being concerned in the supply of cannabis between February 2022 and the day of his arrest.  

The defendant had five previous convictions for five offences - the last dating back to 2008 and none in relation to drug supply. 

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Defending, Michael Whitty, said Williams had started using cannabis as a form of pain relief from unspecified health problems. He said Williams' dealing was confined to a small group of known associates, rather than operating in a wider capacity. Mr Whitty said the defendant "got into [it] by accident" and that things "got out of hand".

The court also heard that Williams is a sole carer for his bed-bound mother. 

Judge Nicola Saffman sentenced him to six months imprisonment which was suspended for a year - owing to his "significant" mitigation. He must also complete 20 rehabilitation requirement activity days.