Drugs, Danger and a Toddler Left Alone – Man Jailed for 3 Years in Horsham
Stopped with Heroin and Crack
A 27-year-old man caught red-handed with heroin and crack cocaine in Horsham has been locked up for three years. Shamel Sudeene-Darien, originally from Penge, London, was stopped by police in the town centre on January 20. Officers found wraps of suspected Class A drugs, a burner phone, and a screwdriver on him.
Toddler Found Alone in Hazardous Flat
Police followed the trail to a nearby rented flat where Sudeene-Darien had been staying. Horrifyingly, they discovered a toddler left completely alone inside. The flat was a ticking time bomb, with exposed electrical wires, an unlocked rooftop balcony, and no food or water. To make matters worse, 154 wraps of crack cocaine were hidden inside a black glove, along with £1,000 in cash.
Guilty Plea and Jail Sentence
Sudeene-Darien faced nine charges, including drug supply, possession of an offensive weapon, and child neglect. He pleaded guilty at Lewes Crown Court and was sentenced on March 11 to three years behind bars.
Police Speak Out on Shocking Scene
“Officers found clear evidence of County Lines drug activity,” said Detective Inspector Rebecca Hopkins. “What shocked us was the toddler left alone in dangerous conditions – unlocked balcony, loose wires, and wraps of drugs easily swallowable by a young child.”
“There was no accessible food or water. It was simply not safe.”
DI Hopkins praised officers for safeguarding the child during the investigation.
Community Warned as County Lines Crime Continues
DI Hopkins warned the public about ongoing County Lines drug operations wreaking havoc in Horsham. “We’re determined to disrupt these harmful groups. Thanks to our evidence, Sudeene-Darien had no choice but to plead guilty.”
Child Now in Safe Hands
The toddler has been placed with social services for their protection. Authorities urge locals to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity, highlighting the serious risks County Lines pose to communities and vulnerable children alike.
