Ross drug dealer sentenced to 40 months after police stop

A drug dealer from Ross-on-Wye has been sentenced to three years and four months in prison after pleading guilty at court.

Nicholas Jenkins, 46, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply a class A drug – heroin, possession with intent to supply a class A drug – cocaine and possession of a class C drug – diazepam, at Worcester Crown Court on Friday 5 June.

Jenkins was sentenced to 40 months in total and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £228 as well as the forfeiture of £155 cash and the destruction of drugs found in his possession.

On 18 May, acting on community intelligence, officers from Ross Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) stopped and searched Jenkins in the town using Section 23 powers under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

He was found in possession of class A and C drugs with an estimated street value of £2,800 along with other drug dealing related paraphernalia and cash.

Through a combined effort of SNT, response and Proactive CID officers, Jenkins was subsequently arrested, charged and remanded to prison ahead of his court date.

PC John Townsend, the arresting officer said: “The use and supply of drugs cause significant harm in our community.

“This is a prime example of how information from the community helps us build a picture of what’s going on.

“This allows us to work across police departments and proactively target those who cause the most harm.

“I encourage anyone who suspects drug dealing in their area to report it to us via 101 or online via Report a crime | West Mercia Police .”

• Alternatively, if you have information but don’t feel comfortable speaking to police, you can speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers. It is 100% anonymous, they never ask your name, and they cannot trace your call or IP address. You can contact them online or by calling 0800 555 111.