THREE Redditch drug dealers have been convicted for supplying around £7,000 worth of edible cannabis sweets following a three-year investigation.
Earlier this year, a suspect was found selling edible cannabis which was ‘advertised’ as sweets and arrested.
A search saw drugs and edibles seized and led to simultaneous warrants on three addresses in June by a team of 15 officers.
A large amount of cannabis and edibles were seized which were being manufactured in the homes.
Homemade herbal cannabis and cannabis edibles were found cooling in a kitchen.
A further investigation on mobile devices saw evidence discovered of supply by all involved.
On Wednesday, November 29, John Thomas, aged 36, of Winforton Close, Redditch was convicted of two counts of possession of cannabis with the intent to supply.
He received a 16-month sentence, suspended for 18 months, 150 hours of unpaid work and £350 costs.
Caswell Barnett, aged 35 of Lightoak Close, Redditch, was convicted of the same offence and given an eight-month sentence, suspended for 18 months.
He was also ordered to do 75 hours of unpaid work and pay £350 costs.
Natalija Byrd, aged 45, of Hayford Close, Redditch was convicted of being concerned in the supply of a controlled drug (cannabis).
Byrd was given a 12-month community order and ordered to do 60 hours of unpaid work.
Lead investigating officer PC Greg Melville of Redditch Police said: “This investigation helps show we will actively seek out and bring to justice drug dealers operating in the town and move to prevent the supply of harmful drugs in our communities.
“These edibles were also being made at home which present environmental hazards such as fumes and potential fire risks.
“I am glad to see the courts have imposed sentences that not only carry a potential prison term, but that will also help rehabilitate those involved.”
