A teenager has been sentenced to more than two years in a young offenders’ institution for being concerned in Class A drug dealing in Swindon.
Officers from Wiltshire Police’s proactive unit Operation Fortitude carried out a lengthy and detailed investigation into a local drugs line operating in the town.
As part of their enquiries, they identified Connor Stevenson as being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin due to the mobile phone number he was using to sell illegal drugs.
The 18-year-old, of no fixed address, was arrested back in October and officers seized a number of phones.
He appeared at Swindon Crown Court last week (17/12) and was sentenced to two years and two months in a young offenders’ institution.
He had previously pleaded guilty to both offences.
Det Con Jared Yalden, from Operation Fortitude, said: “Our team of dedicated officers have been actively investigating Stevenson for some time and it is thanks to this hard work and perseverance that we have seen him prosecuted and put before bars.
“Not only did we successfully arrest him back in October, but we were able to ensure he was remanded while awaiting his court appearance so he had no further opportunities to offend.
“Drug dealing is something which destroys lives and we want the people of Swindon to be confident that our teams are proactively out there, investigating these sorts of offenders, apprehending them and ensuring they face justice.”
Local Lines activity falls under Project Optimise – Wiltshire Police’s approach to serious and organised crime.
The community plays a vital role in helping us tackle serious and organised crime. If you suspect drug dealing or believe someone is being exploited, call us on 101 or 999 in an emergency. You can also report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
