John Franklin, 25, was caught dealing drugs in Middlesbrough town centre. Officers spotted him acting suspiciously on 15th December 2025, lurking in areas known for drug activity while constantly using his mobile phone.
Resisted Arrest and Found with £1,000s in Drugs and Cash
When police approached, Franklin tried to flee but was caught. A search found two mobile phones, cannabis, cocaine worth over £400, and £571 in cash on him.
But that was just the start. At his home, officers discovered £4,860 in cash, a cash counting machine, bags with cannabis residue, and drug paraphernalia.
Already on Licence – Now Locked Up for Almost Four Years
Franklin was charged with possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs, plus possession of criminal property. He was already on licence, having served three years previously for similar offences.
On Monday, 30th March 2026, Teesside Crown Court sentenced Franklin to three years and eleven months behind bars. Jail time for this repeat offender looks set to keep Middlesbrough safe – at least for now.
