A bench warrant has been issued for the arrest of Jade Smith, a woman facing multiple charges related to drug dealing in Letterkenny. Smith failed to appear before the Letterkenny District Court on two separate occasions within the last two weeks.
Court Non-Attendance and Legal Proceedings
During this week’s hearing, solicitor Mr Rory O’Brien informed Judge Emile Daly that Smith had telephoned his office regarding her absence. However, the legal representative stated he was unable to reach his client when attempting to call her back.
“We haven’t been able to raise her,” Mr O’Brien told the court. This follows a hearing last week where Mr Senan Crawford BL advised the court that there had been no contact from Smith, though Mr O’Brien noted she had previously indicated “childcare difficulties.”
Having granted Smith “one opportunity” last week, Judge Daly issued the current bench warrant. Garda Sergeant Jim Collins confirmed to the court that authorities are seeking to have her brought before the court.
Details of the Initial Drug Raid
The legal proceedings stem from an operation on January 29, 2025, when detectives and armed gardai raided an apartment at Grand Central, Canal Road, Letterkenny. During the search, officers seized suspected cocaine valued at €2,800 and suspected cannabis valued at €1,200.
In addition to the illegal substances, gardai recovered a quantity of cash totaling €1,900 and £230 sterling. Smith, 27, of Charlestown Place, Finglas, Dublin, was arrested during the operation.
Legal Charges and Statutory Violations
Smith is charged with the possession of cocaine for the purpose of selling or supplying to others, as well as the possession of cannabis for the same purpose. These charges are contrary to section 15 and section 27 (3) of the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977 (as substituted by section 6 of the 1984 Act).
she faces a charge for the possession of cannabis, which is an offence contrary to section 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977 (as substituted by section 6 of the 1984 Act).
Possible Next Steps
Following the issuance of the bench warrant, gardai may attempt to locate and arrest Smith to ensure her appearance in court. If executed, this could lead to a mandatory hearing where the court may address both the original drug charges and the failure to appear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was a bench warrant issued for Jade Smith?
The warrant was issued by Judge Emile Daly after Smith failed to appear before the Letterkenny District Court twice in the last two weeks.
What items were seized during the January 2025 raid?
Officers seized suspected cocaine valued at €2,800, suspected cannabis valued at €1,200 and cash amounting to €1,900 and £230 sterling.
Where did the original drug seizure take place?
The raid was conducted by detectives and armed gardai at an apartment located at Grand Central, Canal Road, Letterkenny.
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