A drug dealer who was found with cocaine in his bed has been jailed

Mark Freer, 23, set up a designated and sophisticated drug deal line to send out bulk messages to drug users.

The co-ordinated line was being used to sell Class A drugs such as Cocaine and Heroin – with over 6,000 messages sent within a three-month period.

Officers from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) launched an investigation and on July 26 last year, with the support of Cleveland Police, executed a warrant at his address on Colleton Walk, Middlesbrough.

The strike resulted in the arrest of Freer from his bed, where he was found lying with some Cocaine and a stash of cash.

Freer was subsequently charged with Concerned in the Supply of Class A Drugs and Possession with Intent to Supply.

He appeared at Teesside Crown Court on March 25 of this year and pleaded guilty to both offences.

On Monday (September 9), he appeared before the same court and was sentenced to a total of five years and 11 months.

Following the sentencing, NEROCU Detective Constable Stu Howarth, said: “This is a superb result following tireless work from our NEROCU officers and Cleveland Police who are dedicated to identifying and disrupting these networks.

“Freer believed he could evade police and profit from drugs which prove so destructive and harmful to communities.”

“This should serve as the latest warning to anyone who believes they can set up illegal operations and get away with it – you’ll get an early wake up call from us!”

NEROCU Detective Inspector Shaun Fordy said: “Our work in identifying and dismantling drug supply in our communities will continue and we promise our efforts will not slow down.

“Along with our partners, we will continue to relentlessly pursue those involved in this type of criminality under the banner of Operation Sentinel – our region-wide initiative to tackle serious and organised crime in all its forms.”

If you have any information about drug supply you can report it to your local police or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.