Man jailed for drugs offences in Northwich

A 46-year-old man has been jailed for more than three years for drugs offences in Northwich.

Richard Grainger, of Hesketh Drive, Lostock Gralam, appeared at Chester Crown Court on Friday 3 May where he was sentenced to 40 months in prison for possession with intent to supply heroin and crack cocaine.

On Thursday 4 April, officers from Northwich Proactive and Beat teams executed a warrant at Grainger’s home address.

Grainger was located on the sofa in the living room and told officers there were drugs present in the property. As officers began searching, Grainger made attempts to destroy a quantity of class A drugs which were on the floor.

After being further restrained, officers recovered 5.24g of cocaine and 23.26g of heroin. A total of £735 in cash was also located in Grainger’s trouser pocket.

Four sets of digital scales were recovered from the property, along with drugs paraphernalia, and weapons – including knives and a baseball bat.

The heroin and crack cocaine seized from the property had a potential combined value of £2,600.

A drugs expert determined it was likely these drugs would have been broken down into ‘street deals’ for onward supply and commercial gain.

Grainger was subsequently charged with possession with intent to supply class A drugs, and possession of criminal property.

He appeared at Chester Magistrates’ Court on Friday 5 April where he pleaded guilty to the offences.

Following the sentencing, PC Matt Uren from Northwich Proactive Team said:

“I welcome the sentence handed to Grainger and hope this provides some reassurance to members of the community that we are doing all we can to tackle offences of this nature.

“Grainger was found in possession of a large quantity of drugs for onward supply and a substantial amount of cash, which was all seized. This should serve as a warning that crime does not pay – we will track you down and hold you accountable for your actions.

“The dangers of illegal drugs cannot be underestimated, and this is why we continue to urge anyone with any information about drug-related offences in their community to get in touch with us and we will do the rest.”

Pictured - Richard Grainger of Hesketh Drive in Lostock Gralam.