A FREQUENT Isle of Wight offender caught with more than £17,000 worth of cannabis tucked away in his garage has been spared an immediate jail sentence.

Richard Sullivan, of Royal Crescent, Sandown, appeared before a judge at the Isle of Wight Crown Court on Friday, October 27.

The 48-year-old admitted possession of cannabis with intent to supply, on June 12, 2020.

Prosecutor, Ellie Sheahan, said large quantities of cannabis were found in Sullivan’s garage.

She said police officers executed a search warrant at his home, discovering three tubs containing cannabis – 1,745 grams valued at £17,555 – with other drug-related paraphernalia.

Sullivan told officers one of the tubs was for re-sale, and the other two, he was looking after.

Sullivan had 28 previous convictions for 56 offences, the majority of them thefts.

Jonathan Underhill, defending, said it was a street dealing scenario and Sullivan was a complex character.

He said he was the primary carer for his wife, and immediate custody would have a disproportionate effect, both on himself, and his family.

Mr Underhill said Sullivan was trying to keep life stable, and a community order would mean he would have no excuse if he found himself before the courts again.

Sullivan was handed a 20-month prison term, suspended for two years, to include 20 rehabilitation days and 200 hours of unpaid work.