Stephen Kelly, 23, of Kingfield Road, in Orrell Park, has been jailed for drugs supply offences after he was arrested during Merseyside Police's Operation Vanguard. He was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court on October 6 to two years and seven months in prison.
Arrest and search
Kelly was arrested after officers searched his home and found 'pink tussi' (which is typically a mix of Class A and B drugs) worth up to £6,970 and cannabis worth up to £17,690. There was also £2,820 in cash as well as a large amount of luxury goods found in the premises.
Kelly had been investigated by Project Medusa, which targets County Lines drug dealing and the criminal exploitation of young people and vulnerable adults, after selling cannabis on social media through a 'Seamus Hashman' brand. A large quantity of 'Seamus Hashman' branded cannabis packaging was found during the search of the premises.
Guilty plea and sentence
Kelly pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A and Class B drugs, being concerned in the supply of cannabis and possession of criminal property. His sentence also included three months for breaching a suspended sentence order from a previous drugs supply conviction.
Police comment and appeal
Speaking after the sentencing, Police Staff Investigator Jack Rothwell from Project Medusa said: "I hope this sentencing shows how we leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of drug dealers who bring misery to our communities.
"Kelly thought he could hide behind a social media account, but sadly for him there is no hiding place in Merseyside. We will relentlessly pursue anyone suspected as being involved in drugs supply whether it's on the streets on online.
"Thanks to the proactive work of Project Medusa officers, he has now been jailed where he will have time to reflect on his actions. Project Medusa is committed to identifying and targeting those involved in drug supply across Merseyside. We will continue to gather intelligence, disrupt criminal activity and bring offenders to justice."
Anyone with information about drug dealing can contact Merseyside Police via social media @MerPolCC or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
