AN Ipswich man is facing jail today after police discovered a stash of cannabis, weighing scales and hundreds of pounds in his flat.

AN Ipswich man is facing jail today after police discovered a stash of cannabis, weighing scales and hundreds of pounds in his flat.

Appearing at South East Suffolk Magistrates' Court, Shane Fonvilla pleaded guilty to possession of drugs with intent to supply.

The 22-year-old also pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage by punching a cupboard following his arrest, and having the cash as criminal property.

The court heard that police officers discovered the class C drug stuffed in plastic carrier bags next to a set of scales when they searched Fonvilla's Orwell Gardens home on May 3. Their search also uncovered £720 hidden with drugs in the living room.

The defendant, who is a tenant at the flat, had been out during the search but later returned and was arrested.

In interview, Fonvilla admitted that the 178grams of cannabis, with a street value of £670, belonged to him.

Stephen Colman, prosecuting, said: “He told police he smoked cannabis at home with his friends.

“He accepted he had sold some of the cannabis for £20 a time. He said he had been selling it on and off since January this year.”

Mr Colman said Fonvilla was working but earned a low wage as an apprentice, and had bought the drugs hoping to make a £180 profit.

Magistrates were told Fonvilla had a number of drug-related previous convictions. They committed the case to crown court for sentencing and told Fonvilla the sentencing he was likely to face between nine and 12 months imprisonment the offences.

He was released on unconditional bail and will appear at Ipswich Crown Court on a date yet to be confirmed.