A drug dealer is facing more than four years in prison after he was caught supplying cocaine.
Luke Dixon also had nearly 20g of the class A drug in his possession when police searched his Ashington home in October last year. A court heard that the 30-year-old had been dealing to cocaine users and was charged with supplying 0.4g of the drug to a man.
Dixon, of Avondale Gardens, in Ashington, was also charged with possessing a class A drug with intent to supply when he appeared before South East Northumberland Magistrates' Court, in Bedlington, this week. He pleaded guilty to both offences.
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Prosecutor, Stephanie Cook, said the case was too serious for magistrates to finalise. She added: "The charges relate from October 4 last year. The Crown would submit that the defendant played a significant role in the supply of drugs. The guidelines suggest the starting point is four-and-a-half-years custody. Therefore, I would submit that this case should be sent to the crown court for sentence."
The court heard that, in total, Dixon was found with 19.38g of cocaine and was snared dealing 0.4g. Glenn Reardon, defending, said: "Although there will be submissions at a later date, I agree that the guidelines extensively exceed your sentencing powers."
Magistrates agreed and sent Dixon to Newcastle Crown Court for sentence on March 7. In the meantime, he was released on unconditional bail.
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