A judge has agreed to let a convicted criminal enjoy a sunshine holiday before he faces a possible prison sentence.
Colin Watson was caught with cocaine, ecstasy and cannabis in Newport, Wales, in October last year.
He was also armed with a stun gun and an extendable baton.
The 51-year-old from Pontypool pleaded guilty to the five offences when he appeared in court.
However, he was spared an immediate prison sentence so he could enjoy a pre-booked holiday to the Canary Islands, reports The Telegraph.
His barrister Hashim Salmman asked if sentence could be adjourned so Watson could travel to Tenerife with his partner.
“There are unusual circumstances. He has a background worthy of exploration,” said Mr Salmman.
Judge Jeremy Jenkins told Watson he would grant the wish as an "act of mercy" - but told him he must come back.
He said: "You have pleaded guilty to a number of very serious matters. I am trusting you. Don’t let me down."
Watson will be sentenced on May 31 instead.
However the judge's decision has been described as “extraordinary” by campaigners.
Harry Fletcher, the victims' rights campaigner, told The Telegraph: "It is quite extraordinary and virtually unprecedented in my experience for a judge to adjourn sentencing of a convicted serious offender to allow them to go and enjoy a holiday.
“It’s also a bizarre message to send to victims of all crime who are concerned about sentencing in this country.”
A spokesman for the judiciary said: “Judges take different factors into account when sentencing or setting a timescale for sentence.”
