Arron Jay Gantes, 22, has been sentenced to three years and eight months in prison for peddling illegal drugs to children as young as 14 in Whitby. Gantes, from Northgate, Guisborough, was involved in a County Lines operation where he offered drugs, including cocaine, cannabis, and ecstasy (MDMA), via mass advertising on mobile phones.
Gantes’ operation came to light after officers stopped and searched a teenager in Whitby in 2023, discovering illegal drugs in the teenager’s possession. This led to an investigation that pointed to Gantes as the supplier. A subsequent raid at Gantes’ home in Guisborough uncovered a significant quantity of cannabis, cocaine, and MDMA, along with cash and drug dealing paraphernalia, including deal bags and weighing scales.
The investigation revealed that Gantes was targeting young drug users aged 14 to 17, marketing his drugs under names such as “Thin Mints,” “Zour Skittles,” “Candy Haze,” and “Cookie Dawg.” Evidence showed that Gantes regularly travelled to Whitby following the broadcast of his illegal drug adverts. It was also discovered that he received over £25,000 in third-party cash deposits into his bank account, despite having no legitimate means of income.
Gates pleaded guilty to seven offences, including being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis, possessing with intent to supply cocaine, cannabis, and MDMA, and acquiring, using, or possessing criminal property. He was sentenced at York Crown Court on Tuesday, June 25, 2024.
Investigating officer PC Rebecca Davison of Scarborough Response Team condemned Gantes’ actions, stating, “Gantes put greed before the wellbeing of vulnerable children. He knowingly sold dangerous and illegal drugs to them, putting their health and well-being at great risk, purely for his benefit. He is now facing the consequences of his actions. I hope his time in prison provides ample time for reflection on his lifestyle choices.”
An application under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 is scheduled for October 8 at York Crown Court, where the court will determine the fate of the money and assets seized from Gantes.
