Infamous drug dealer Curtis Warren has been bailed following an arrest at a home he shared with a prison officer he had an affair with behind bars.
The 60-year-old was arrested by National Crime Agency officers at 6am on Wednesday for allegedly breaching a Serious Crime Prevention Order. He was questioned over alleged breaches of the order which came into effect following his release from jail last November.
The NCA said the breaches “relate to the unauthorised use of mobile phones, vehicles, bank accounts and travel”. Footage of the arrest shows officers breaking down the front door of the home in Boldon Colliery, Tyneside, The Mirror reports.
Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features.
Smithwhite, 44, was jailed for two years in 2020 due to her relationship with Warren while he was behind bars at HMP Frankland, where she was working at the time. Searches were also carried out at an address in the Royal Albert Dock area of Liverpool where it is understood Warren has been staying.
A spokesperson said the things seized included mobile devices, documents, and cash. The NCA told the Mirror on Wednesday night that Warren had been bailed pending further enquiries.
Warren's former barrister Anthony Barraclough confirmed that Warren was the man arrested, despite not being named by the NCA. Mr Barraclough, retained by Warren’s solicitors to provide advice, said: “Any breaches will be minor transgressions. These will be very fine interpretations of restrictions I anticipate.
“I imagine he was in Tyneside to visit friends. He is allowed to travel and have mobile phones, bank accounts and up to £1,000 in cash." He added: “If he is going to be away from home he needs permission and he has had permission. I have not spoken to him yet as he is in custody."
Alison Abbott, from the NCA, said: “These court orders are vital tools for preventing and deterring future and offending. Once criminals come onto our radar, they never leave, and the NCA will take action over breaches.”
Breaches are subject to a maximum sentence of five years, an unlimited fine, or both.
