A DRUG dealer has been jailed thanks to the local community.

Ashley Finney has been sentenced to two years and four months in prison after admitting to possession with intent to supply class-A drugs, namely cocaine.

The 34-year-old was arrested by plain-clothed officers back in January after Cheshire Police were tipped off by Northwich residents.

Following his sentencing, Police Constable Kev Anderson, of Northwich Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “As this case demonstrates information from the local community is vital and it can make a real difference.

“Illegal drugs can have a devastating impact, not only on drug users, but also the community around them.

“Here in Northwich, we are doing all we can to stop drug activity on our streets to make the town a safer place to live and visit, while also making it extremely difficult for these offenders to operate.

“We will always act on any information about drug activity provided to us and would urge anyone who believes this activity is happening near to them to get in touch."

Ashley Finney, of Danefield Road in NorthwichAshley Finney, of Danefield Road in Northwich (Image: Cheshire Police)

In January 2023, police received information suggesting Finney was dealing class-A drugs in the Northwich area.

Plain-clothed officers were sent to the Royle Street area on January 20, where they spotted Finney acting suspiciously.

He was stopped by officers and upon being searched was found in possession of nine snap bags of white powder and a Nokia mobile phone.

Finney was arrested and a further search was then conducted at his home on Danefield Road, where officers discovered another five snap bags of white powder along with other drugs paraphernalia.

Drugs experts analysed the white powder and confirmed that it was cocaine.

Finney refused to answer any of the questions that were put to him during questioning but, despite his silence, he was subsequently charged with possession with intent to supply class A.

Finney appeared at Chester Crown Court on Tuesday (July 16) where he was sentenced to two years and four months in prison.