Newport drug dealer jailed for bulk cocaine text messages

A Newport drug dealer who sent out “bulk” text messages advertising cocaine for sale has been locked up for three years.

Blair Bailey, 36, of Clyffard Crescent, was running a drugs line that police uncovered after arresting other traffickers in the city. When officers raided his home, they discovered incriminating evidence on his mobile phone and seized £380 in cash.

Cardiff Crown Court heard that Bailey typically offered 1.75g deals of the class A drug – known as a “T-shirt” on the street – directly to customers.

Prosecutor Abigail Jackson told the court: “The prosecution say the defendant played a significant role. There was the expectation of a significant financial advantage through the amount of messages that were being sent out. He was selling directly to users.”

Bailey pleaded guilty to offering to supply a class A drug between 1st September last year and 31st May. He gave a no comment interview when questioned by detectives.

The defendant has 18 previous convictions for 32 offences, including possession of a bladed article, theft and driving matters, plus drug possession offences – but none for supply.

Defence barrister William Bebb said: “This was not a particularly sophisticated set-up. There was no use of social media for advertising, price lists or runners. He was himself a drug user.”

Mr Bebb added: “The defendant wasn’t found with any expensive property and he wasn’t living a lavish lifestyle. There was no designer belongings associated with someone running a lucrative business.”

The court heard Bailey had shown “remorse and regret after making poor decisions”.

Judge Jeremy Jenkins told Bailey: “You were addicted to cocaine and were supplying to users of that drug for profit.”

Bailey will serve half of his three-year sentence in prison before being released on licence. Time served on remand will count towards his sentence. He must also pay a victim surcharge.