A mum jailed after being caught with heroin and crack cocaine at a Betfred shop read a heartfelt poem to the judge during sentencing at Liverpool Crown Court.
Michaela Parsons, 35, was arrested after swallowing 14 wraps of drugs inside the bookmakers when police observed her carrying out a suspected drug deal in Birkenhead on March 14.
Officers spotted Parsons meeting with two people on Keightley Street before entering the local Betfred branch. Moments later, she emerged and was seen exchanging small items for cash. When officers followed her inside, she attempted to swallow multiple wraps but was caught with eight wraps of crack cocaine and two of heroin. She confessed to police: “I swallowed 14. They’re mine.”
Following her release under investigation, Parsons was found again just three days later, sitting by a tree in Birkenhead Park, surrounded by a group of suspected drug users. As police approached, she threw £255 in cash toward a lake. Officers recovered the money along with 13 wraps of crack cocaine and three of heroin, worth an estimated £360.
Parsons, who has 36 previous convictions for 86 offences, admitted four charges of possession with intent to supply heroin and crack cocaine. She appeared in court via video link from HMP Styal, wearing a white tank top and read a poem to the judge, expressing remorse and a desire to reconnect with her daughters.
“I never grew up thinking this was the life I would lead… I was beaten and abused by a man who I thought loved me… I know I can do this, being out there drug-free.”
Her defense barrister, John Weate, explained that Parsons relapsed after receiving distressing news about her daughters’ placement breaking down. He said she is now clean, working with support services, and motivated to rebuild her life.
Sentencing her to 33 months in prison, Judge Denis Watson KC acknowledged her long history with drug use but also noted her family support and apparent willingness to change.
“You were pressured to deal because of drug debts… You have a drug addict’s record. But you show insight, and your family clearly cares.”
