Callum Chadwick (Image: Dyfed-Powys Police)
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A 26-year-old whose own cocaine habit had spiralled beyond control has been sent to prison for 28 months, after a judge concluded he had played down the true reach of his dealing.
Callum Chadwick, of Barn Street, Haverfordwest, was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court. Dyfed-Powys Police have since put out his custody photograph.
How he operated
Joseph Hocquard, prosecuting, described how Chadwick used his mobile phone to fire out mass advertising texts, listing to recipients what he had available to sell.
That trade ran for a stretch just shy of two years, starting on 27 June 2024 and continuing through to 9 May this year.
He admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine, and separately pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine with intent to supply in Goodwick.
A claim abandoned
Chadwick had initially advanced a basis of plea confining his activity to a small circle of friends. That version was subsequently withdrawn.
His record carries a single previous entry – a drug-driving conviction that brought a fine and a 12-month disqualification.
Mitigation
Daniel Griffiths, representing Chadwick, told the court:
“He started dealing to fund his own addiction which was out of control.
“The defendant and his then partner were taking significant quantities of cocaine on a daily basis.
“He co-operated with the police following his arrest and he gave them the PIN for his phone.
“The defendant’s best mitigation is the guilty pleas entered at the earliest possible opportunity.”
Mr Griffiths added:
“He bitterly regrets the stress and worry he has caused his family.
“He has a loving family who care about him and his future.
“The defendant has a limited antecedent record and the probation report writer believes there is a realistic prospect of rehabilitation in his case.
“He has also had a taste of custody.”
Sentencing
Judge Paul Thomas KC told Chadwick:
“This was a fairly substantial commercial venture.
“Illegal drugs are a scourge on our society.
“You knew precisely what would happen to you if you were caught – your gamble did not come off and you now have to pay for it.”
The judge went on:
“You tried to portray your offending as being limited to selling to a few friends.
“You have been less than honest about the scale and nature of your drug dealing.”
Chadwick was locked up for two years and four months. A proceeds of crime hearing is expected to follow.
