‘Expect to be jailed’, drugs teenager told

Joseph Hughes, 19, appeared at Chichester Crown Court on Friday, where he pleaded guilty to one count of possessing cocaine with intent to supply, one count of possessing cocaine, two counts of possessing cannabis with intent to supply and two counts of possessing mephedrone with intent to supply.

Mr Hughes, of Shingle Court, St Leonards-on-sea, lived in Worthing at the time he committed the offences.

Edward Hand, prosecuting, said: “Joseph Hughes is 19 years old and does have previous convictions and has been convicted previously for possessing a collection of drugs with intent to supply, although it was a few years ago.”

Defending, Mr Halsey said: “This young man was 18 at the time and has not been to prison before and has been clean for at least a year.

“He has moved to his grandfather’s in Hastings and has got a job at a solicitor’s office.”

Judge Lawson-Rogers told Mr Hughes: “You will realise having pleaded guilty to some serious offences that the most likely outcome in your case is for you to lose your liberty.

“It’s important that the court have all the information before sentencing and I understand there are some positive improvements in your favour which will be considered.”

Mr Hughes was bailed until his sentencing hearing on February 20.