Runcorn drug dealer jailed following successful stop check

A man believed to have been transporting drugs from Runcorn to Northwich has been jailed following a successful stop check.

Andrew Shields was arrested on Wednesday 6 October after officers on patrol in the Old Town stopped a red Kia Sportage on Main Road.

The stop check was made following intelligence from officers in Northwich that the car was being used to transport drugs.

The 29-year-old, who was a passenger in the vehicle, was taken into custody searched where he was found to be in possession of 148 wraps of crack cocaine, valued at £1480.

Shields, of Camelot Way, Runcorn, was subsequently charged with possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

He appeared at Chester Crown Court on Friday 5 November where he was jailed for 28 months after pleading guilty to the charge.

Following the sentencing Detective Constable Claire Heatley, of the Western Proactive Team said: “This is a great result and the case shows the importance of the police’s power to stop and search people they suspect to be breaking the law.

“As a result of the intelligence and our ability to stop and search Shields, a drug dealer is now behind bars and a large quantity of illegal drugs have been seized, most of which were likely to be destined for the streets of Northwich.

“Illegal drugs have a hugely detrimental impact and we are committed to doing all we can to remove those involved in the supply of such drugs from our communities.

“Information from the public is vital for this fight and I urge anyone with any information about suspected drug related activity in their community to get in touch.

“You will be listened to and we will investigate the matter.”

You can report suspected drug dealing to Cheshire Constabulary directly by calling 101 or giving the details online via https://www.cheshire.police.uk/ro/report.

Alternatively, information can also be given anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.