Man from Ellesmere Port jailed with drug and driving offences

A local drug dealer has been jailed following an investigation into the supply of crack cocaine and heroin in Ellesmere Port.

Craig Arnold appeared at Chester Crown Court on Monday 2 October, where he was sentenced to six years and three months in prison.

The 36-year-old had previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply class A drugs (crack cocaine and heroin), as well as being concerned in the supply of class A drugs (crack cocaine and heroin) between 28 February 2023 and 12 May 2023.

The investigation into Arnold’s criminal activity began when police identified a mobile number that had been sending large amounts of ‘flare’ messages, advertising the sale of illegal drugs.

CCTV and telecoms analysis confirmed that Arnold was using the phone to facilitate the supply of crack cocaine and heroin in Ellesmere Port.

On Friday 12 May, officers conducted a search warrant at Arnold’s home address on Victoria Road, Ellesmere Port, where a significant quantity of crack cocaine and heroin were recovered.

Arnold was arrested after a further 80 bags of class A drugs were found buried in a plant pot in his garden.

He was subsequently charged being concerned in the supply of class A drugs (crack cocaine, heroin) and possession with intent to supply class A drugs (crack cocaine, heroin).

In addition to the drugs charges, Arnold also was also charged with, and pleaded guilty to, dangerous driving.

The charge relates to an incident at around 12.05am on Friday 17 February, when Arnold failed to stop for officers on Moorland Road, Ellesmere Port.

A police pursuit commenced but Arnold managed to make off from officers due to the excessive speed at which he was operating the vehicle.

He was located shortly after on New Chester Road, near to the A41. Arnold initially tried to resist arrest before he was brought under control by captor spray.

PC Mike Rogers of Ellesmere Port Proactive Policing Team said:

“Arnold is a prolific offender who continued to show a clear disregard for the law and the communities that the law protects.

“Thanks to the evidence gathered, we have been able to remove another drug dealer from our town and stop a large quantity of drugs from finding their way onto the streets.

“The sentence handed to Arnold reflects the severity of his actions and he is now being held accountable.

“I hope this case reassures communities that we are committed to doing all we can to tackle this type of criminality.

“I also hope this sentencing demonstrates to other criminals trying to operate here, that Cheshire remains a hostile environment and will not be targeted.”

Pictured - Craig Arnold.