Man jailed for more than six years following successful police stop check in Chester

A man has been jailed for more than six years for drugs offences after officers from Cheshire Police carried out a successful stop check in Chester.

Gary Novelli, aged 49, of Llys Padarn in Ewloe, was sentenced to 78 months in prison at Chester Crown Court on Wednesday 28th January.

The court heard that at around 2.30pm on Monday 13th October 2025, officers from the Cheshire Police Roads and Crime Unit were on patrol in Chester when they spotted a blue Audi travelling along Sealand Road.

The vehicle was stopped, and Novelli identified himself as the driver.

During a search of the car, officers found a box in the front passenger footwell. Inside was a vacuum‑packed block of solid white powder — later confirmed to be cocaine — with an estimated potential wholesale value of up to £26,000.

Novelli was arrested at the scene and taken into custody. A subsequent search of his home address in Ewloe uncovered more than £30,000 in cash and a small quantity of cannabis.

Despite refusing to answer questions during interview, Novelli was later charged and pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and possession of criminal property.

Following the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Roy Wellings, of Chester Proactive CID, said:

“This case shows the importance of the police’s power to stop and search people they suspect of breaking the law.

“Thanks to the vigilance of our roads policing officers and the effective use of stop and search powers, a dangerous drug dealer is now behind bars, and a significant amount of illegal drugs has been removed from our streets.

“I welcome the sentence handed to Novelli today, and I hope it demonstrates clearly that drug dealing in Chester or anywhere else in Cheshire will not be tolerated.

“While this investigation has concluded, our work to tackle illegal drugs and those who supply them is ongoing. Intelligence from the public is vital, and I would urge anyone with information about suspected drug-related activity in their community to report it.

“You will be listened to, and we will investigate.”

Information about suspected drug dealing can be reported directly to Cheshire Constabulary via 101, or online at:  

https://www.cheshire.police.uk/ro/report .

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on:

0800 555 111

Pictured - Gary Novelli of Llys Padarn in Ewloe.