County lines drug dealer slams nearly five years behind bars after desperate drug-swallowing stunt!
Shocking Sting on Crack and Heroin Supply
In November 2024, Kent Police launched a crackdown after tracing two phone numbers tied to an organised crime gang supplying crack cocaine and heroin across Medway. The dealers were linked to Hastings, with 25-year-old Leesean Francis caught as the key contact behind the scenes.
Dramatic Takedown in St Leonards-on-Sea
On 23 January 2025, officers swooped on a property in St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex, where Francis was spotted leaving. As police moved to arrest him, the dealer shocked them by trying to hide a packet of crack cocaine and heroin down his throat. Officers acted fast, stopping the stunt and seizing the drugs plus a mobile phone used for drug deals.
Guilty Plea Lands Nearly Five Years in Prison
Francis, from Moorland Road, Brixton, London, faced Maidstone Crown Court and admitted to:
- Supplying crack cocaine
- Supplying heroin
- Possessing heroin with intent to supply
On 25 February 2025, he was slammed with a sentence of four years and ten months behind bars.
Police Warn: Drug Dealers Beware
Detective Constable Hannah Hills, leading the investigation, said: “These dealers need to understand that as soon as they try to supply class A drugs in Kent, we will find out about their criminal enterprise and take steps to identify them.”
“It is then only a matter of time before they get a visit from one of our enforcement teams and they are swiftly charged and brought to justice.”
Kent Police Vow to Crush County Lines Networks
Kent Police remain determined to smash county lines drug rings that exploit vulnerable people and fuel serious crime across the region. Authorities urge anyone with info on drug dealing to come forward by calling 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
