Teen dealer caught three times in two months jailed

A teenager who became addicted to cocaine and ended up homeless was caught dealing Class A drugs on three separate occasions after being reported missing.

Ricardo Spriggs, 19, was first discovered by police when they responded to a missing person report at supported living accommodation on Clive Road, Cardiff, on June 29, 2024. Officers watched as Spriggs hurried into his bedroom and threw something beneath his duvet.

A search uncovered seven wraps hidden under the covers, along with a cannabis joint. When questioned, Spriggs insisted: “There’s been people in here – it’s not mine.” Police also seized small plastic bags, a Nokia burner phone, and £244 in cash. The wraps contained crack cocaine worth £105.

During his interview, Spriggs claimed he’d been forced into dealing by another person and was working under threat of violence.

Less than two months later, on August 13, 2024, officers returned to his room and discovered a larger stash. They found 11 cling film wraps of crack cocaine valued at £215, 18 wraps of heroin worth £180, and a set of scales.

The third arrest came on June 19 last year when officers patrolling Hansen Street, Cardiff, noticed known drug users approaching Spriggs, who was riding a bicycle. When detained and searched, he was found with a snapbag of cannabis and two mobile phones.

After being transported to Cardiff Bay police station, Spriggs stepped from the police car and dropped a black package, which he attempted to kick away. Inside were 34 wraps of crack cocaine worth £340.

Spriggs, of HMP Cardiff, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply heroin, crack cocaine, and cocaine, as well as possession of cannabis. The court heard he had no previous convictions.

Defence barrister Martha Smith-Higgins told Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court that her client had endured a difficult background and had become addicted to cocaine. Before his arrest, Spriggs was homeless and living in a hotel. He’d left school at 15 without qualifications and spent much of his life in care. His partner is now pregnant, and his sister has offered him accommodation upon release.

Judge Daniel Williams sentenced Spriggs to two years detention in a young offender institute and wished him luck as he was led to the cells.