Drug dealer jailed after importation operation

A drug dealer has been jailed – after attempting to import Class A drugs.

On September 26 in 2023, UK Border Force intercepted a parcel on its way to Darlington after officers raised suspicions about the package.

Upon further investigation the parcel contained over 250 methamphetamine tablets and 250 tabs of LSD.

The North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) were immediately contacted and investigating officers began their plan to strike following enquiries with the support of the National Crime Agency (NCA).

On November 9 in 2023, officers descended onto the home address of Matthew Smith on Charles Street in Darlington as well as a second address on Thames Way.

Smith, 35, was arrested and officers also discovered further drugs including Cocaine, MDMA, LSD and Ketamine during the warrant searches as well as a police style baton.

He was subsequently charged with nine offences in total including, importing Class A drug, supply of Class A drug, possession of Class A drug, supply of Class B drug, evade prohibition/restriction on the exporting of Class A drug and possess an offensive weapon.

He admitted all counts at Peterlee Magistrates' Court on October 10 last year, and on Friday (February 27), was sentenced to nine years and six months in prison.

Speaking after the result NEROCU Detective Sergeant Neil Lovat, said: “This is yet another example of robust policing where partners have come together to secure an arrest and positive result at court.

“Having Class A drugs imported to the North East is incredible damaging to our communities. It can create harm and violence and profits from these sales fund wider organised crimes like child sexual abuse and modern slavery.

“Under the banner of Operation Sentinel, our united regional approach to tackling Serious and Organised crime in all forms, we’ll continue to work with partners to pursue suspects and protect the public.”

Suspicious behaviour can be reported to your local police via 101 or their website, or in an emergency, or where a crime is taking place, always dial 999.

Members of the public can also report information anonymously by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.