62-Year-Old Woman Avoids Jail Over South Northants Cocaine Bust
A 62-year-old granny from a quiet South Northamptonshire village has dodged prison after being caught dealing Class A drugs from her own home.
Julie Dawn Cobley was slapped with an 18-month suspended sentence last month at Northampton Crown Court. Police found cocaine with a street value between £4,000 and £8,500 during a raid at her Deanshanger address.
Drugs Found in Safe During Police Raid
Officers from the South Northamptonshire Neighbourhood Policing Team struck on July 27 last year, executing a warrant under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act at Cobley’s home in Maltings Row.
During the search, Cobley willingly showed police to a safe containing 16 wraps of cocaine, plus more packs in plastic bags and a container. Cops also seized her mobile phone and £230 in cash.
She was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply cocaine but later released under investigation.
Judge Suspends Jail Sentence but Hits Her With Fine
Following an extensive probe, Cobley was charged and appeared at Northampton Magistrates’ Court earlier this summer. Her case eventually landed at Northampton Crown Court where she was given an 18-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months.
She was also fined £187 and ordered to pay £230 in court costs, avoiding immediate jail time.
Police Praise Community Help in Bust
“This warrant came straight from intelligence and concerns raised by local residents worried about drug issues in their area,” said Sergeant Josh Ellard, who led the investigation.
“Tackling drug harm is our top priority. We’ll keep working with local communities to disrupt dealers who target vulnerable people and ruin lives.
“This case shows how working together with partners and residents can make a real difference. If you spot suspicious activity, please report it.”
If you have info on drug dealing or crime, contact Northamptonshire Police on 101, visit www.northants.police.uk/report, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
