A drug dealer who established a county lines operation in Exeter while on the run from police has been sentenced to seven years and six months in prison.
Connor Wilbraham, 21, from Wirral, Merseyside, admitted conspiracy to supply heroin and cocaine, and possession with intent to supply. He was arrested in Rhyl, North Wales, in March 2018 for selling drugs but failed to appear for sentencing, the court heard.
While on the run, Wilbraham recruited drivers to transport young dealers from Wirral to Exeter between February and July 2020. Each trip carried up to 1,543 ready-wrapped street deals, worth £10 to £20 each, with the operation estimated to be worth £300,000.
The gang, known as the Manc Joey gang, continued dealing during the first lockdown, but their activities were easily spotted on deserted streets. Five other gang members have already been jailed at Exeter Crown Court.
Mark Worsley, defending, said Wilbraham acted under pressure due to a drug debt incurred after his 2018 arrest.
