Wallasey man sentenced to three years for County Lines drug dealing

We are welcoming the sentencing of a man from Wallasey for three years following an investigation into County Lines drug dealing.

Thomas Ambrose, 28, originally from Wallasey but of no fixed abode, was sentenced to three years in prison at Liverpool Crown Court on Monday 12 December for being concerned in the supply of crack and heroin.

The sentencing comes as a result of an investigation into County Lines drug dealing and the criminal exploitation of children through Operation Toxic.

Detectives were able to prove that Ambrose was controlling the ‘Curly’ County Line in Chester between October and November where he suppled drugs to the streets of Chester.

Detective Inspector Gary Stratton said: “Ambrose’s conviction means that his drug dealing has been disrupted where he was supplying heroin and crack cocaine.

“The organised criminal gangs who operated these County Lines groom and exploit the most vulnerable people in our communities, including children and young people to store and sell drugs.

“Organised crime is hugely damaging to our communities, often involving intimidation, violence and creating fear and it is these criminals who run County Lines.

“Criminals involved in organised crime have no thought for anyone other than themselves, and their criminal intent and greed.

 “We are dedicated to cutting these County Lines dead and taking those who operate them off our streets and working with partners to help those who may be exploited by these gangs.

“We cannot stop this criminality alone, we need to continue our work with partners and we need the public’s help. It’s vital that everyone who cares for or knows young and vulnerable people understands the issue and knows the warning signs, and the more people share this advice the better.”

Read more here about how to spot the signs of exploitation linked to drug dealing and the Eyes Open campaign, introduced by Merseyside Violence Reduction Partnership: www.eyes-open.co.uk

You can also report any concerns to police on 999 if a crime is in progress, via 101, or via Twitter @MerPolCC.

You can also pass information via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org