Convicted Sheffield drug dealer claims he's a '˜changed man' despite being back in the dock

A convicted Sheffield drug dealer back in the dock after being released from prison told a judge: 'I'm a changed person.'
Kyle BurginKyle Burgin
Kyle Burgin

Dealer Kyle Burgin, aged 29, who represented himself, pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis with intent to supply after officers found £280 worth of drugs.

Burgin, of Raeburn Road, Gleadless Valley, told Judge Mark Gargan he is now running his own gardening business.

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Sentencing had been adjourned for a pre-sentence report but Burgin did not turn up to his meeting with the probation service and claimed work was ‘more important’.

Sheffield Crown Court was told officers spotted Burgin on August 25 last year shouting out of the window of his car at a property in the city.

Brian Outhwaite, prosecuting, said: “When officers went over to speak to him, they could smell cannabis and found a clear bag of cannabis weighing 27.6 grams.

“In his car officers found a cannabis grinder, a small set of scales and a diary.

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“Police searched his address and found two cannabis grinders, another set of scales and some clear dealer bags.”

Burgin claimed the £280 worth of cannabis was for his ‘own use’ but after examining his phone police found text messages suggesting Burgin was selling drugs.

One text said ‘You got a ten mate?’ and another ‘Can you sort us out?’.

“This was indicative of street dealing in low amounts,” Mr Outhwaite said.

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Burgin was jailed for three years with another man for dealing cocaine and cannabis in 2011.

The court also heard Burgin was fined after he admitted possession of cannabis in February this year.

But Burgin told the court: “I’m a changed person since the previous convictions.

“I’m working on my new business.”

Judge Gargan asked why he did not apply for legal aid and why he failed to attend a meeting with the probation service.

“I’ve been working hard on my new business” said Burgin.

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“Work is more important to me than attending a pre-sentence report.”

Judge Gargan told him: “You were offered a previous pre-sentence report and you deliberately failed to attend and chose to prioritise work.

“This is your last opportunity and I strongly advise you to obtain legal representation.”

Sentencing was adjourned until May 9.