County Derry man called police claiming people were hiding under his carpet and threatening him with blades

Police found approximately 600 tablets in a Magherafelt man's home after he called them and claimed that people were hiding under the carpet, a local court has heard.

Rohan McReynolds appeared before Magherafelt Magistrates Court this morning (Wednesday) charged with two counts of possession of a Class C drug and possession of a Class A drug.

The court heard that the charges related to an incident on November 9 2024.

McReynolds, of Leckagh Drive, called police just after 2am on the date in question and claimed that people were hiding in his home under the carpet and were threatening him with blades.

When police arrived at the property, they spotted 28 year-old McReynolds standing behind the door.

He told officers that he could not locate the door key and gestured for them to go around the side of the property.

When police gained entry to the house they carried out a search but were unable to find anyone else in the property.

During the search officers uncovered a large quantity of Class C drugs which had not been prescribed to McReynolds.

They also found a small bag containing suspected cocaine.

The prosecutor said approximately 600 tablets were found however after investigations, police were satisfied that there was no intent to supply.

When asked about the suspected cocaine, McReynolds told police that he had taken a 'bump' of it prior to officers arriving.

The court heard that McReynolds was taken to Antrim Area Hospital, where he spent a week, followed by Holywell Hospital, where he stayed for an additional four weeks.

McReynold's solicitor said there are 'very clear mental health issues' involved adding that his client had become 'reliant' on drugs.

He stated that McReynolds, who has no previous criminal record, has since taken steps to address his addiction.

District Judge Oonagh Mullan noted that the quantity of drugs found was 'extremely concerning'.

Adjourning the case, Judge Mullan ordered a pre-sentence report and advised McReynolds to 'address your addiction issues now'.

McReynolds will be sentenced on March 5.