Addict told his life was in 'jeopardy' after package lodged in throat

A drug addict from Douglas has been told he put his life in 'jeopardy' after a package of heroin got stuck in his throat.

43-year-old Donal John Tobin, of Marathon Drive had to have surgery after the drug, which he'd swallowed, became lodged in his oesophagus. 

At Douglas Courthouse this week he was handed a six-month probation order after previously admitting possessing the Class A substance. 

Tobin attended Noble's Hospital on September 24th complaining of chest pain and an inability to swallow - he'd consumed the package after being stopped by police. 

0.8 grams of the drug, valued at between £101 and £202, was then removed. 

The court heard Tobin has been addicted to heroin for 30 years - his advocate told the court a UK rehabilitation place was on the horizon adding: "He's desperate to get clean."  

Deputy High Bailiff Jayne Hughes also ordered Tobin to pay prosecution costs of £125 - the drug will be destroyed.