A JUDGE noted that a Southampton man, at whose home drugs were found, looked shocked when he heard he had to pay £1,500 in terms of a fine and court costs.

“I see you raised your eyebrows,” said Recorder Maria Lamb. “But these are expensive matters. If you think that is expensive, think that you are not paying a heavier penalty.”

The judge was addressing Steven Mather, 23, who admitted possessing cannabis with intent to supply.

Prosecutor Louisa Bagley told Southampton Crown Court how police armed with a warrant went to his home in Irving Road where they found cannabis with a street value of £660 in an electricity meter box and 34 wraps in a living room cupboard. They also discovered a deals lists and his fingerprints on wrapping. Mather received an 18-month community order with 18 months supervision.

The court heard the offence put him in breach of a suspended sentence which had been imposed for assault, for which he was ordered to pay a £500 fine. He must also pay £1,000 costs.