Sutton man in court after weapon and drugs seized during police action on county lines
A Sutton man has appeared in court after being arrested during a week of police action on county lines drug dealing across Nottinghamshire.
Officers carried out raids, searches and other enforcement activity during the national County Lines Intensification Week, aimed to disrupt those involved and protect the vulnerable people they coerce into criminal activity.
County lines is a term used to describe gangs supplying drugs to other areas using dedicated mobile phone lines.
During one such action, officers arrested a man and recovered a large amount of class A drugs when a motorcyclist ran from them in Brierley Forest Park in Sutton.
Wraps of cocaine and heroin were seized, along with a knuckleduster, following the incident around 3pm on March 5.
Inquiries revealed the bike had been stolen in Leicestershire in October last year.
Eighteen-year-old Corben Pearson, of Brierley Road, was subsequently charged with possession with intent to supply heroin and cocaine, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, handling stolen goods and driving a motor vehicle without a licence or insurance.
He appeared before magistrates on March 7 and was remanded in custody until April 2.
DS Toni Smithurst, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Criminals working in the county lines business models cause a significant amount of harm through the exploitation of vulnerable people, often using children to transport and supply class A drugs.
“These groups also spread misery among the communities in which they operate and this is why it is a priority for the force to target and disrupt those believed to be involved.
“The arrests, charges and seizures made are really positive developments and it is testament to the hard work dedication and teamwork shown by officers in the county lines team and others across the force.”
Anyone who has information regarding drug dealing in their area, is urged to call Nottinghamshire Police on 101, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or dial 999 in an emergency.
For more information please visit nottinghamshire.police.uk/advice/county-lines