Liverpool drug dealer jailed following Project Medusa investigation

A man from Liverpool who ran a County Line drug network in the city centre has been jailed for four years and six months.

Asher Bedwell, 33, of Queensland Steet, Liverpool, pleaded guilty to all charges and was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court yesterday (Tuesday 16 June) to four years and six months in prison for:

• Being concerned in supply of Class drugs (crack cocaine and heroin)
• Racially aggravated public order

Bedwell was also issued a five-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) and had his mobile phone seized under a deprivation order.

Following an investigation by Merseyside Police’s County Lines team, Project Medusa, detectives established that Bedwell was the controller of a County Lines drug operation supplying crack cocaine and heroin into Liverpool city centre.

Officers executed a warrant at his home address on Tuesday 12 May 2026 and arrested Bedwell on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs.

During his arrest, Bedwell racially abused an officer. He was subsequently further arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated public order.

Project Medusa officers lead the force’s daily response to County Lines activity, working to intercept weapons, drugs, and illicit cash, while identifying and safeguarding individuals vulnerable to exploitation by organised crime groups.

Detective Chief Inspector Gary Stratton from Project Medusa said: “Bedwell believed he could supply drugs within our communities, but thanks to a proactive and thorough investigation by Project Medusa, he was stopped and brought to justice.

“His actions during his arrest, where he racially abused an officer, are completely unacceptable and highlight the challenges our officers face while protecting the public.

“We will keep pursuing organised criminals, protecting vulnerable people, and cracking down on the harm drugs bring to our communities.”

You can report any concerns to police on 999 if a crime is in progress, via 101, or our social media desk via X @MerPolCC.

The Eyes Open campaign educates young people, parents, carers and professionals about the dangers of grooming, exploitation, and the deceptive tactics used by County Lines gangs. To learn more about the signs of exploitation, please visit County Lines - Spot The Signs | Eyes Open.