Drug Dealer Busted in Tunbridge Wells After Selling Class A and B Drugs via Text
Josiah Roberts thought he could peddle cocaine, ecstasy, and cannabis to locals in Tunbridge Wells without getting caught. But the community policing team had other ideas. Their investigation revealed Roberts was texting residents near his Teise Close home, hawking illegal drugs.
Police Raid Uncovers Drug Sales Operation
On 16 May 2019, officers executed a search warrant under the Misuse of Drugs Act at Roberts’ address. They arrested the 21-year-old and seized his mobile phone and weighing scales. Text messages on the phone featured drug deals complete with photos of the stash. Forensic analysis even found cocaine residue on the scales.
Roberts Sentenced to Over Two Years Behind Bars
Roberts faced Maidstone Crown Court where, on 3 November 2020, he pleaded guilty to two counts of supplying Class A drugs and one count of supplying Class B drugs. On 13 May 2021, the court handed down a prison sentence of two years and three months.
Dedicated Police Crack Down on Drug Dealers
“Roberts was blatantly offering drugs to people living in Tunbridge Wells and this came to the notice of local officers,” said PC Kady Cartwright.
“We are always alert for those who target some of the most vulnerable in our community and were quick to obtain a search warrant once we were aware of his activities. Roberts has been brought to justice and anybody seeking to supply Class A drugs in our town can expect a similar response from our officers.”
