A 16-year-old boy has been told to serve as an unofficial court sketch artist after failing a police drug test but finding sympathy from the judge for his love of art.
District Judge Barney McElholm, sitting at Derry magistrates' court, made the unusual decision after deciding that the teenager - who admitted using cannabis before being arrested on Wednesday - deserved a second chance.
The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was reportedly told by Mr McElholm: “You must bring with you a sketch pad and a pencil and you can draw me and the solicitors for two hours each day.
“Only me and the solicitors, and I will review the matter.”
He added: “If you look stoned you will be arrested.”
The Independent