COUNTY - Having what the judge described as "a bit of a pharmacy" of illegal drugs in his home has netted a Newburne man $1,150 and a year on probation.

 Michael David George, 37, pleaded guilty to three counts of possession under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act December 21 in Bridgewater provincial court.

 Federal prosecutor Jodi Mailman told the court officers with the South Shore street squad found 12 morphine pills, 24 grams of marijuana and less than a gram of hash oil when they searched Mr. George's home on September 15.

 Police also seized a variety of drug paraphernalia, which was also forfeited to the Crown last week.

 Mr. George had two prior drug convictions from the early 1990s.

 Given that record and the variety of drugs seized in September, Ms Mailman recommended probation and counselling "to address the underlying causes" of the offences.

 While on probation, Mr. George must take counselling as directed and stay clear of drugs.

 Judge Gregory Lenehan warned him if he gets caught with contraband again any time soon, with five priors, he won't get any more breaks.

 "Your one break with regards to possession of these things is happening today," he said.

posted on 12/28/11