Barnsley Man Jailed After Cocaine Seizure and 50mph Chase Through Estate
A drug dealer who sped through a residential estate in Barnsley to evade police has been sentenced to nearly three years in prison.
Morgan Swindells, 23, of Denby Road, was caught with 127 wraps of cocaine, over £500 in cash, and a suspected burner phone when arrested in Athersley on May 14.
South Yorkshire Police said PC Rebecca Hunt, on patrol in the area, identified a silver Renault Megane linked to drug activity. When she signaled for the vehicle to stop, Swindells fled, reaching speeds of over 50mph through the housing estate before eventually stopping and attempting to flee on foot. PC Hunt quickly detained him.
At Sheffield Crown Court, Swindells pleaded guilty to possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply, dangerous driving, driving without insurance, and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence. A charge of obstructing a police constable was dismissed. He was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison.
PC Hunt commented, “Drug dealing in our community fuels other crimes and puts lives at risk. Swindells showed no regard for public safety, but thanks to intelligence and quick action, we were able to remove both him and his supply from our streets.”
