Drug dealer jailed again after dealing drugs from his prison cell

A man from Northwich has been jailed after he admitted dealing drugs from his prison cell in Preston.

Samuel Watts appeared at Burnley Crown Court on Thursday 5 June where he was sentenced to four years and four months in prison.

The 34-year-old of Thornley Green, Northwich, had earlier pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of class A drugs (cocaine) while serving a prison sentence at HMP Kirkham near Preston.

The court heard how in September 2023 Watts was jailed for three years after he admitted being concerned in the supply of class A and B drugs (cocaine and cannabis) and possession of a weapon.

In July 2024 officers at Northwich Proactive CID discovered intelligence suggesting that Watts was in possession of a mobile phone and was coordinating the sale of illegal drugs in Northwich from his prison cell.

Following the discovery, officers arranged for Watts to be searched in his cell, where prison officers discovered an Apple iPhone which was strapped to his waist.

The phone was later analysed by officers at Northwich who recovered a catalogue of messages which proved he was involved in the sale of illegal drugs.

Watts was later arrested on Thursday 21 November 2024, as he left HMP Kirkham following his release for his previous offences.

Following the sentencing Police Constable Dan Lee, Of Northwich Proactive CID, said:

“Watts saw his initial prison sentence as an inconvenience rather than a punishment. After smuggling a mobile phone into the prison, he thought that he could simply continue to run his criminal enterprise from behind bars, directing people lower down the chain to deliver drugs on his behalf.

“However, he clearly underestimated the dedication and determination of the team here at Northwich Proactive CID. As soon as we became aware of his latest activities we brought them to a swift conclusion and were ready to arrest him as he was released from prison. 

“I welcome the latest sentence handed to Watts and hopefully this time he’ll use his time behind bars to reflect upon his actions rather than trying to set up another business venture, otherwise we’ll be waiting for him again next time he’s released.”