Northwich drug dealer sentenced

A drug dealer who tried to evade officers by hiding in the changing rooms at a shop in Northwich has been jailed.

Jake Dickens appeared at Chester Crown Court on Thursday 10th September where he was sentenced to 38 months in prison.

The 33-year-old of Britton Crescent in Mouton, had earlier pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of class A and B drugs (Cannabis and Cocaine) possession with intent to supply class A drugs (Cocaine) and possession of criminal property.

On Friday 24th April, plain clothed officers were on patrol in Northwich town centre when they spotted Dickens dealing drugs to another man.

Officers attempted to intervene, but Dickens ran off, leading them on a on a foot chase across the town centre.

He was eventually found hiding in the changing rooms at Matalan where he was promptly arrested and found in possession of almost £450 cash.

Over £1,000 worth of illegal drugs and a mobile phone which Dickens dumped during the foot chase were also later recovered.

Following questioning, Dickens was released on conditional bail while the mobile phone was sent off for further analysis.

However, officers recovered further mobile phone evidence which showed that he was continuing to deal drugs in the local area whilst on bail.

Dickens was subsequently arrested again and charged with drug supply offences.

Following the sentencing, Police Constable Dan Lee, of Northwich Proactive CID said:

"Quite why Dickens thought it would be a good idea to hide in the changing rooms at a store when being chased by officers, we'll never know. Maybe he was planning ahead and thinking about what suit to wear in court.

"Despite his visit to Matalan, his choice of outfit obviously wasn't enough to impress the judge, and he’s now gone straight to jail.

“The dangers of illegal drugs are well known and the team here at Northwich are committed to doing all we can to identify those responsible.

“However, this is not an issue we can tackle alone, we also need support from the public and I urge anyone with any information in relation to the supply of drugs to get in touch."

Information can be reported directly on 101 or at: 

www.cheshire.police.uk/tell-us

...or anonymously via Crimestoppers on:

0800 555 111

Pictured - Jake Dickens of Britton Crescent in Mouton.