North East ecstasy drug dealer jailed

A drug dealer who imported and sold ecstasy has been jailed for over five years.

Ryan Mason, 25, is adjusting to life behind bars after he has been sentenced for his role in a drugs conspiracy that involved importing ecstasy from overseas.

In May 2022 officers from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), the National Crime Agency (NCA) and UK Border Force launched an investigation and intercepted a parcel in Coventry on its way to Hartlepool.

The parcel contained over 1,000 ecstasy pills and over £12,000 worth of MDMA.

Officers swiftly executed a warrant at Mason’s address on Kerriemuir Road, Owton Manor, and searches of the property found a further 3,000 ecstasy tablets – estimated at £30,000- over £5,000 in cash and drug paraphernalia.

Mason was arrested, charged and appeared at Teesside Crown Court where he pleaded guilty to importation of Class A drugs and possession of Class A drugs.

Last Friday (November 15), he appeared before the same court and was sentenced to five years and six months for his criminal actions.

Following the sentence, NEROCU Detective Sergeant Neil Lovat, said: “A further example of the lengths we, and our partners, will go, to protect North East communities from the devastating impact of drug supply.

“This result shows our commitment and our resources and how together, under Operation Sentinel, we can continue our work to disrupt and dismantle serious and organised crime.

“This activity is part of our ongoing commitment to tackle drug importation, supply, and distribution in our region – and it will continue.”

If you see anything suspicious in your community, always report it to police via 101 or in an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, always ring 999.

Alternatively, you can also report information anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.