A notorious Liverpool criminal is back behind bars after being caught running a drug supply operation and racially abusing a police officer during his arrest. Asher Bedwell, 33, was the controller of a county lines drug operation that supplied crack cocaine and heroin across the city centre.
Investigation and Arrest
Merseyside Police's county lines team, Project Medusa, investigated Bedwell and established his role in the drug supply network. Officers executed a warrant at his home on Queensland Street on Tuesday, May 12. During his arrest on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs, Bedwell racially abused one of the officers. He was subsequently arrested again for racially aggravated harassment.
Court Sentencing
On Tuesday, June 16, Bedwell appeared at Liverpool Crown Court and admitted the charges. He was sentenced to four years and six months in prison, issued a five-year criminal behaviour order, and had his mobile phone seized under a deprivation order.
Police Statement
Detective Chief Inspector Gary Stratton from Project Medusa said: "Bedwell believed he could supply drugs within our communities, but thanks to a proactive and thorough investigation by Project Medusa, he was stopped and brought to justice. His actions during his arrest, where he racially abused an officer, are completely unacceptable and highlight the challenges our officers face while protecting the public."
He added: "We will keep pursuing organised criminals, protecting vulnerable people, and cracking down on the harm drugs bring to our communities."
Public Reporting
A police spokesperson urged the public to report concerns via 999 for crimes in progress, 101, or social media on X @MerPolCC. The Eyes Open campaign educates young people and carers about county lines exploitation. For more information, visit the County Lines - Spot The Signs website.
