Op Toxic: Man jailed for 3 years following joint police operation

A man has been jailed for 3 years following a joint operation between Merseyside and Dorset Police to infiltrate County Lines drug dealings.

Carl Masher, 24 of Arncliffe Road, Halewood was jailed at Liverpool Crown Court after pleading guilty to being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin.

The joint operation with Dorset Police led to the closure of the ‘Scouse Les’ line operating into Weymouth and the safeguarding of a young person.

Detective Inspector Gary Stratton said: “As a force we are committed to working alongside other forces to target criminals suspected in being involved in drugs supply, and ultimately shut down the County Lines networks.

“Merseyside’s Operation Toxic, as part of Project Medusa, continues to work closely with forces and other agencies to shut County Lines down. We will relentlessly target those crime groups who cowardly exploit vulnerable people in our communities.

“If you have any information any form of serious or organised crime including drug dealing, violence and the exploitation of children please contact us so we can take action.”

Sergeant Andy Jenkins of Dorset Police added: “Dorset Police were fully engaged in working alongside our Merseyside colleagues. The arrest in Liverpool was made following intelligence and evidence provided by Dorset Police.

“We were also able to safeguard a young person in Weymouth. We will continue to work hard to disrupt suspected county lines in our county and beyond to ensure the safety of our communities.”