A cocaine dealer who peddled 'short-lived highs for long-term misery' has been jailed. Wayne Layburn, 28, was caught in a bedroom during a police raid on December 4 last year, where officers discovered cocaine, cash, and several mobile phones.
Court Details
Newcastle Crown Court heard that Layburn had been involved in supplying the drug. Judge Tim Gittins stated that Layburn turned to drugs after a family tragedy and quickly accumulated a £2,000 debt. 'With no prospects of repaying that, and being assaulted for your trouble, you were forced to act as an agent for your dealer,' the judge said.
Judge Gittins described the operation as a 'busy, street level supply dealership' that served tens if not hundreds of customers. He added: 'That business is a horrible business, selling short lived highs for long-term misery.'
Sentence and Consequences
Layburn, of Bridge Road, North Shields, admitted being concerned in the supply of a Class A drug between October 26 and December 5 last year. He was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison. Prosecutors have also initiated proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Judge Gittins told him: 'You know you are capable of so much better.'
Nick Lane, defending, said Layburn had been subjected to violence and acknowledged he should have found a more appropriate way to cope with his loss.
