Brothers jailed for supply of crack cocaine and heroin in Wirral

Will Smith and Terrance Smith (left to right)

Two brothers have been jailed after exploiting a 16-year-old boy to peddle heroin and crack cocaine in Woodchurch.

Following an extensive investigation, 26-year-old Will Smith and his brother Terrance Smith, 21, were arrested in warrants in May 2025 when officers seized drugs and mobile phones.

The operation was led by Project Medusa, Merseyside’s specialist county lines team and supported by Matrix and officers from Local Policing.

They were found to be operating a county line in the area and taking advantage of the teen to help their illicit enterprise.

The brothers appeared at Liverpool Crown Court today Terrance Junior James Smith, of no fixed address, was jailed for four years, three months for being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin.

William Patrick James Smith, from Heswall, was sentenced to six years in prison for the same offences.

County Lines is a term used to describe drug dealing where criminals use mobile phones to sell and move drugs, often from big cities into smaller towns and rural areas.

These gangs often take advantage of vulnerable people – such as children or those struggling with mental health or addiction – by forcing them to carry drugs or using their homes to sell drugs, a tactic known as ‘cuckooing’.

Detective Sergeant Peter Sloan said: “Members of organised crime groups think nothing of dragging young people into their lives of crime, violence and fear.

“The Smith brothers took advantage of their victim and exposed him to that world at a young age. They no doubt promised riches, but have ultimately both ended up in prison.

“The young man they used to carry their drugs has been safeguarded and referred to partner agencies for their support. I hope he seizes the second chance he has been given so that his life takes a more productive path, for his sake and that of his loved ones.”

Merseyside Police’s Project Medusa team continues to lead the force’s response to County Lines, using a range of tactics to disrupt criminal networks and protect those at risk.

The Eyes Open campaign supports the work of police and partners by raising awareness of County Lines, helping communities spot the signs and break the cycle of exploitation.

If you believe that someone may be being exploited in this way, you can give information 100% anonymously to Crimestoppers, an independent charity. Crimestoppers is not the police. Anonymous means your identity is completely unknown.

If you think someone is in immediate danger, always dial 999.

To keep your Eyes Open about exploitation, please visit https://eyes-open.co.uk/.