Two women who supplied cocaine, ketamine and cannabis across Staffordshire have avoided jail despite being caught with £7,500 worth of drugs in a double police bust.
Stacey Culvin, 40, and Sharnie Price, 31, both from Rugeley, were arrested on November 19, 2024, after officers from Staffordshire Police intercepted them during a proactive operation targeting countywide drug supply.
Culvin was found with Class A and B drugs including cocaine, ketamine, and cannabis, while Price was caught with cocaine and cannabis. Both women were subsequently charged and later admitted being concerned in the supply of drugs at Stafford Crown Court in January.
Despite the serious nature of the offences, the pair avoided immediate prison sentences when they appeared for sentencing last week. Culvin was handed a 24-month prison term, suspended for two years, after also admitting possession of criminal property. Price received a 13-month sentence, suspended for 18 months.
A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police confirmed the arrests and detailed the operation:
“Stacey Culvin, 40, from Rugeley, was searched by proactive officers on November 19. We found cocaine, ketamine and cannabis. On the same day, officers searched Sharnie Price, 31, and found cocaine and cannabis. The total estimated street value of the drugs seized was believed to be around £7,500.”
The force stressed that the arrests formed part of a broader crackdown on organised crime launched in May 2023, which has so far resulted in over 1,000 arrests for suspected drug and weapons offences.
“Officers from our dedicated major and organised crime teams are working hard every day to tackle the gangs responsible for high harm offences in our communities,” the spokesperson added.
While many have welcomed the police’s efforts to dismantle drug networks, the decision to suspend the women’s prison sentences has stirred debate. Critics argue the punishment does not reflect the severity of supplying harmful substances across an entire county, while others support a rehabilitative approach for non-violent offenders.
No further court proceedings have been announced, though both women will be subject to conditions as part of their suspended sentences.
