POLICE who carried out a drugs search at the home of a 55-year-old Accrington man found an electrical stun gun.

Blackburn magistrates heard there could be no legal reason for Hugh Robert Johnstone to possess the firearm. Johnstone, of Nelson Street, Accrington, pleaded guilty to possessing heroin, and the stun gun.

He was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months, made subject to a curfew between 6pm and 6am for six months, and was ordered to pay £165 costs.

Catherine Allan, prosecuting, said police who spoke to Johnstone felt he was nervous, and could smell cannabis. A search revealed a single wrap of heroin, and a subsequent search of his house revealed the electrical device.

Richard Prew, defending, said the stun gun was not in working order.

“He tinkers with things and someone had given it to him to see if he could get it working,” said Mr Prew. “His use of drugs is entrenched, and he takes the view that, at the age of 55, that is a lifestyle choice.”