A DRUG dealer was wished “good luck” by a judge as he promised to turn his life around after thousands of pounds of drugs were found in his home.

Daniel Morrisson has been given a suspended prison sentence after police found a cannabis cultivation in Beedell Avenue, Westcliff on August 9.

The 27-year-old appeared at Basildon Crown Court yesterday after admitting producing cannabis and possession with intent to supply cannabis.

Recorder Paul Sharkey told the court police raided the home at 8am and found two tents in an upstairs room, with the larger tent containing around 20 cannabis plants, plus various drug growing paraphernalia.

A cupboard was also found to be used to grow cannabis plants, and other harvested cannabis was also found.

But Morrisson insisted he has left a life of crime behind and has found employment.

Recorder Sharkey told Morrisson: “You said it was all to do with you and you had been addicted to cannabis since you were 15. You gave the officers pin codes to your mobile phone and there were a number of messages indicating the offer of supply of cannabis.”

Recorder Sharkey said the value of the harvested cannabis was worth between £5,150 and £7,725, and the plants were worth at least £2,000.

Recorder Sharkey told Morrisson he was “clearly” motivated by financial gain.

The court heard that Morrisson’s family remain supportive and he has found employment, and he is “well regarded by his employer”.

Recorder Sharkey gave Morrisson a 12-month suspended sentence and 200 hours unpaid work.

He added: “If you commit further offences in that 12 months or you do not complete the unpaid work you will be brought back to court and the suspended sentence will be activated.

“Good luck for the future.”