A Liverpool man has been jailed for more than three years for Class A drug supply following an investigation by Merseyside Police’s County Lines team, Project Medusa.

Nathan Slemen, 48, of Newby Street, Liverpool, was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court this week (Tuesday 3 March) to 40 months in prison for possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.

The conviction follows proactive patrols carried out by officers from Merseyside’s County Lines Taskforce on Tuesday 3 February, targeting County Lines activity in the Southport area.

During the operation, Slemen was seen carrying out a suspected drug deal and was detained by officers. A search recovered a significant quantity of crack cocaine and heroin, all packaged and prepared for onward supply.

Following an investigation by Operation Toxic, Slemen was charged with possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and has now been sentenced to 40 months in prison.

The individual purchasing the drugs was also detained and identified as a vulnerable missing person. They were safely returned to staffed accommodation, with appropriate drug referrals made.

The County Lines Taskforce and Operation Toxic form part of Project Medusa – a Merseyside-led initiative tackling County Lines drug dealing and the criminal exploitation of vulnerable people across the country.

Inspector Stephen Morris from Project Medusa said: “Slemen believed he could supply drugs within our communities, but thanks to the vigilance and proactive work of our officers he was quickly stopped and brought to justice.

“This case demonstrates our continued commitment through both the County Lines Taskforce and Operation Toxic to disrupting organised criminal networks, protecting vulnerable people, and reducing the harm that drugs cause in our communities.”

Anyone with information about drug dealing or the use or storage of weapons in their area can contact Merseyside Police social via the social media desk @MerPolCC on X and Facebook.

Information can also be passed via the Merseyside Police website: https://www.merseyside.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ or by calling 101.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their website here: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-