Winsford drug dealer is now behind bars for 'significant time'

Christopher Mitchell, of Vauxhall Way, appeared at Chester Crown Court on April 28 to face two drug dealing charges.

While in the dock, the 34-year-old pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to supply - one for cocaine (class A) and one for ketamine (class B).

The court heard Mitchell was caught with the drugs in Winsford on March 30 earlier this year.

Judge Steven Everett jailed Mitchell for three years and ordered the drugs, along with the defendant's phone, be forfeited and destroyed.

An order was also made for the forfeiture of £190 in cash seized from Mitchell, which will be used by Cheshire Police in their continued fight against drug crime.

Welcoming the sentence, Detective Constable Lara Hill, of Cheshire Police's Northwich Proactive unit, said: “Mitchell is a prolific offender who has been dealing illegal drugs in the Winsford area for some time and using threats of violence and criminal damage in order to enforce drug debts.

Christopher Mitchell (Image: Cheshire Police)

“During our enquiries, it has become clear Mitchell was well known in the area and members of the public have been afraid to report issues to the police for fear of repercussions.

“Mitchell is now facing the consequences of his actions, and will now spend a significant amount of time behind bars. On top of his prison sentence, a small quantity of cash was also seized, which will be used in the fight against drug crime in Cheshire.

“While this case has now concluded, we will continue to target anyone who thinks that they can come into our town to deal drugs and ensure that Winsford is a safe place for those who live here.

“I would urge residents to continue to provide vital information about drug activity in the community as it allows us to build a clear picture of what is going on in the area.”