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.
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