Jesmond dealer walks free after being caught supplying drugs to students

A Shieldfield drug dealer has walked free after being caught dealing drugs to students.

University graduate Ieuan Phoenix told police that he was selling drugs in order to save money to pay off his student debts, as well as for medical fees and to start a wildflower business.

After making a full admission and pleading guilty to possessing cocaine, magic mushrooms, MDMA, LSD and 2C-B with intent to supply, Phoenix has walked away free avoiding prison with a two year suspended sentence.

Ieuan Phoenix, of Portland Road, Shieldfield, was caught selling drugs in Jesmond on 26th January 2023.

He was approached by police on St George’s Terrace, where he had sat on a bench and exchanged drugs for money to numerous people, Chronicle Live reports.

Phoenix admitted to police at the time of being in possession of various drugs and carrying a large sum of cash in a bag.

His home was searched during the investigation where police finding large quantities of drugs and £3,838 cash. Phoenix also had an estimated £41,000 in cryptocurrency in an online wallet on his phone.

via Northumbria Police

The drugs, of which included ketamine, magic mushrooms, cannabis, cocaine, MDMA, LSD and prescription drugs, were worth up to £16,000. Police officers also discovered an advert posted on Snapchat detailing prices, the court heard.

Phoenix, 26 years old, made a full admission to police, revealing he had worked alone and bought drugs off the dark web. He also revealed that most of his customers were university students.

He pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine, magic mushrooms, MDMA, LSD and 2C-B with intent to supply, supplying cocaine, ketamine and cannabis, being concerned in making an offer to supply prescription medication and possessing cash as criminal property.

Jamie Adams, defending, said: “It must have been the easiest investigation the police have had to do. So often, people say nothing to the police. It’s indicative of the fact he has operated completely alone.”

He was sentenced to two years: a two-year suspension and 250 hours of unpaid work. He was told by recorder Brian Whitehead: “You have been a very fortunate man and I hope you don’t let me down”.

“This is a fantastic result for us”, said Sergeant Kate Barr of Northumbria Police Neighbourhood Support Team. “These drugs are harmful to our communities”.

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Featured image via Northumbria Police.

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