Drug dealer jailed after tip-off led to heroin and crack
ASKELMERSDALE drug dealer was one of two people jailed after a police raid found cocaine, heroin and a Taser.
Cheshire police raided a house in Warrington after a drugs hotline was tipped off about suspicious activity involving 25-year-old Steven Willoughby and Warrington woman Emma Matthewman, 47.
Liverpool Crown Court last week heard how officers became suspicious when Willoughby’s phone was constantly ringing and they suspected him of being involved in drug dealing.
During a search of Matthewman’s home, officers recovered drugs paraphernalia, cash, a large kitchen knife, a hammer and even a Taser.
Further searches in the living room also found a number of mobile phones, a quantity of cash and a piece of paper with weights and amounts written on.
Police believe that Willoughby was involved in “county lines” drug activity, supplying drugs to rural areas and used his mobile phone – also known as a “graft” or a “line” – to extend his criminal drug dealing from Liverpool into Cheshire.
Willoughby, of Birch Green, was sentenced to four-and-a-half years’ jail after pleading guilty to possession with intent to supply of heroin and crack cocaine.
Matthewman was given a four-year sentence after admitting the same offences.
Det Sgt Tom Hall, of Warrington CID, said: “The sentences handed to Willoughby and Matthewman show the huge and positive steps we are taking to disrupt those who commit drug dealing in Warrington. The investigation saw us seize 72 deals of heroin and crack cocaine as well as a Taser.
“With the public’s continued support in providing us with key information to help us tackle serious and organised crime, we can help keep vulnerable people and our communities safe.
“I hope this reassures the local community that we will act on any infor- mation that is given to us and I want to take this opportunity to encourage the public to speak to us if you feel drug activity is taking place in your area.”