An ex-soldier caught with thousands of pounds worth of drugs had previously returned from Afghanistan "broken", a court heard. Cameron Gilles, from Nottinghamshire, had joined the armed forces, served in countries worldwide and did active service in Afghanistan.
When he returned, the 31-year-old tried to live a normal life with a partner and children, but he got into difficulties and agreed or allowed himself to be involved in trafficking drugs which were found at an address. Gilles, whose date of birth is 19/04/90, went on to plead guilty to possessing cannabis, amphetamine and cocaine with intent to supply, and supplying cannabis. No value was given at Nottingham Crown Court for the cannabis, but the cocaine was estimated to be worth between £13,000 and £15,000, and had a purity of 77 per cent.
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The cocaine was found on the top of a conservatory as well as messages on a phone about drug dealing in four-figure sums and very large quantities. Judge Stuart Rafferty QC said it was a wholly exceptional case as he imposed two years, suspended for two years, a community order, 40 rehabilitation activity days and a "thinking skills programme".
He referred to the defendant's service in Afghanistan, adding that he returned from the country, "broken". "Many people in your position are still suffering from that awful war, " said the judge. "You, to begin with, tried to make light of the difficulties you had and tried to pretend everything was fine and that you could lead a normal life".
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