Stoke-on-Trent Man Jailed for Hiding Drug Line Phones in Baby's Cot
A Midlands man has been sentenced to over four years in prison after police discovered phones used in a drug supply line hidden under the mattress of a baby's cot. Liam Poole, 23, was arrested following a search of a property in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, which also uncovered more than £10,000 in cash and bags of white powder on top of a kitchen cupboard.
Police Search Uncovers Evidence
Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court heard that officers carried out the search in November last year. During the operation, they found three phones—two concealed under the cot mattress and another hidden amongst Christmas presents. Messages on these devices revealed they had been actively used in the sale and supply of drugs, specifically linked to the Jack line.
Over a five-day period, approximately 270 messages were sent to around 70 different numbers, indicating extensive drug-dealing activity. Following his arrest, Poole, a resident of Longton, initially gave a 'no comment' interview but later admitted his involvement in court.
Sentencing and Police Response
On Friday, March 13, Poole was handed a four-year-and-one-month jail term after pleading guilty to being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine, heroin, and monkey dust. PC Alkins, of Staffordshire Police's city proactive team, commented on the case.
"Poole had clearly attempted to evade detection by hiding the phones, drugs, and cash in the property," said PC Alkins. "Thankfully, we were able to seize and remove them from the property and detain Poole. I am pleased he admitted his involvement in the drugs line and that he was handed a jail term for his offending."
The officer emphasized the police's ongoing commitment to tackling drug-related crime in the region. "We will continue to do all we can to apprehend individuals involved in the supply of illegal substances in Staffordshire and bring them before the courts," PC Alkins added.
This case highlights the lengths to which some individuals will go to conceal illegal activities, even exploiting innocent settings like a child's sleeping area. The successful prosecution serves as a reminder of the vigilance and efforts of local law enforcement in combating drug networks and ensuring community safety.
