Ellesmere Port drug dealer jailed following successful stop check in Runcorn

A man who was found in possession of more than £40,000 worth of class A drugs has been jailed following a successful stop check in Runcorn.

Leon Rix was arrested shortly after 12pm on Wednesday 2 June after officers from Cheshire Police Roads and Crime Unit stopped a Vauxhall Astra on Rocksavage Expressway in Runcorn.

While searching his car officers discovered a one kilo block of cocaine which was hidden under the driver’s seat, along with a baton in the glove compartment.

A drugs expert has estimated that the drugs, which still had the original stamp on from Columbia, had an estimated street value of between £42,870 and £142,900.

During questioning Rix denied being a dealer and claimed that he was simply moving the drugs for somebody else. 

Despite his pleas, he was charge possession with intent to supply class A drugs and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

Rix, 28, of Browning Drive, Great Sutton, appeared at Chester Crown Court on Thursday 1 July where he was jailed for three years and six months after pleading guilty to both offences.

Following his sentencing Inspector Anton Sullivan from the Cheshire police Road and Crime Unit, said: “This a fantastic result which has resulted in the removal of a significant quantity of illegal drugs from the streets of Cheshire and the person responsible now behind bars. 

“The impact that illegal drugs have on our communities cannot be underestimated and I would like to thank all of the officers involved in this case for their dedication and determination to make our county safer.

“We’re commited to doing all we can to make Cheshire a hostile place for criminals and we use all the tools available to us to help achieve our goal. 

“I hope this result sends out a strong warning to other offenders, the message is clear, if you come to Cheshire to commit crime, you will be caught and you will be brought to justice.”

Pictured - Leon Rix.