Man jailed for supplying Class A drugs

A man has been sentenced to six years in prison for his role in supplying drugs in Telford and South Wales.

Esten Bennett, 31, of no fixed abode, was sentenced at Shrewsbury Crown Court on 10 January.

He had previously pleaded guilty to three counts of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and two counts of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs.

West Mercia Police officers from Telford's proactive CID received intelligence that Bennett was linked to drug supplies in the town.

He was arrested sitting in his car on 18 July 2024 in Oakengates, and the vehicle was searched.

The search unearthed £305 in cash and heroin, which was estimated to be worth £200, as well as crack cocaine in Bennett's pocket, worth about £460.

Police then carried out a search at Bennett's house in Hadley and discovered £1,910 in cash, scales and quantities of Class A drugs, as well as wrapping used to bag drugs for sealing.

More than 60 messages were found on his phone that related to selling drugs.

"This sentencing sends a strong message to people who think we will accept drug dealing within our communities, as drugs bring so much devastation to so many people in our towns and villages," said Det Cons Stuart Bott.

"Our team works tirelessly to identify anyone suspected in being involved in drugs and drugs supply, and bringing Bennett to justice follows extensive work from the team and intelligence given to us by the public."

Follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.