A British grandfather and grandmother have been jailed alongside their grandson for running a drug dealing operation from their family home in the village of South Elmsall, near Wakefield, West Yorkshire. Philip Spencer, 64, and Pamela Spencer, 66, were sentenced for possession of crack cocaine with intent to supply after police raided their home following a drug-related death in the area.
Police Raid Uncovers Drugs and Weapons
During the raid, officers discovered crack cocaine, amphetamines, and several dangerous weapons, including a knuckle duster and a crossbow. The couple's 21-year-old grandson, Blake Cowell, was also arrested at the scene. Cowell was later sentenced for drug offences and for possessing a knuckle duster.
Detective Inspector Sarah Degnan of Wakefield CID said: “The Spencers have been a blight on the local community for some time, so I am pleased that justice has been served and they have been deprived of their liberty for a significant period of time.”
Community Intelligence Led to Arrests
Investigating officer DC Saqib Iqbal noted the complexity of the case, stating: “This has been a complex investigation, not least because the defendants sought to evade justice by portraying themselves as vulnerable. However, justice has been served and this will hopefully reassure the community that we will take appropriate action on receipt of community intelligence.”
Philip Spencer admitted possession of crack cocaine with intent to supply and was sentenced to five years and seven months in custody. Pamela Spencer received a three-year sentence for the same offence.
Grandson's Sentence
Blake Cowell admitted possession of cannabis with intent to supply and possession of an offensive weapon in a private place. He was given a two-year suspended sentence, placed on a two-year drug programme, and ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, he received a driving ban of two years and six months for dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, having no insurance, and causing damage to a police vehicle in a previous incident.
