Young Drug Dealer Jailed After Reading Police Crackdown
A 19-year-old man has been locked up for pushing heroin and cocaine on the streets of Reading. Archie Hales, who has no fixed address, pleaded guilty at Reading Crown Court on 26 September 2026 to possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and possession of criminal property.
Two Years Behind Bars for Hales
Hales returned to court on 29 January and was slapped with a tough sentence of two years and four months in prison. Authorities also ordered the destruction of all confiscated items, including drugs, mobile phones, an e-bike, and cash seized under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
Stopped In Shop with Drugs and £820 Cash
Police caught Hales red-handed on 25 September 2025 while he was riding an e-bike along London Road, Reading. He was stopped in a local shop where a search uncovered over £820 in cash and cannabis in a black backpack.
A fuller search revealed 82 wraps of crack cocaine and heroin. Officers also found two iPhones in his possession when they arrested him, charging him the next day.
Police Vow to Continue Cracking Down on Dealers
“Our team will keep hunting down and prosecuting those dealing drugs in our communities,” said PC Ross Hutcheson from the Reading Proactive Team.
“Our efforts will be both visible and undercover, targeting offenders involved in drug supply. Hales will now serve time behind bars and we hope he uses it to reflect on his actions.”
Police urge anyone with information on drug activity in Reading to come forward. Tips can be shared via the Thames Valley Police website, by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
