A Kempston cannabis dealer who lied to the police out of misguided loyalty to a friend was given a suspended prison sentence on Monday, August 22, 2022.
Jordan Kaler, 21, had organised a taxi for a man after he had allegedly driven a car at a pedestrian.
Prosecutor Sebastian Walker told Luton Crown Court that in a statement on 16 May last year Kaler said he did not know the man. He made a second statement three weeks later in which he said he did not want to go to court, but maintained he did not know the man.
But the police inquiries revealed the statements Kaler made were false. Officers also discovered he had been involved in supplying cannabis and had a small amount in his possession.
Kaler, of White Beam Close, Kempston, appeared for sentence having pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice, being concerned in the supply of cannabis and possession of cannabis.
Defending, Andrew Corcut said Kaler had not wanted to name his friend.
They had been intending to go to Nando’s that evening.
He said the statements had not affected the outcome of the police investigation.
Mr Corcut said he was only 20 at the time of the offences and had been dealing cannabis to fund his own use.
He said he had turned his back on his drug habit, expressed remorse and was now working as a kitchen fitter.
Recorder John Law passed an eight month sentence suspended for 18 months.
Kaler must carry out 100 hours’ unpaid work, abide by an electronically-monitored curfew between 7am and 7pm for two months and attend 10 rehabilitation days.
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