Christopher England, 54, from Basildon, has been sentenced to six and a half years in prison for his involvement in drug dealing after police discovered a large quantity of drugs and cash at his address.
England was initially stopped by officers in Paycocke Road, Basildon, after they noticed his car had no insurance. Upon being stopped, he gave officers a false name but was later identified as Christopher England, a man who was wanted for failing to appear in court.
After confirming his identity, police learned that England’s vehicle had connections to drug dealing activity in the town. A search of the car revealed ten mobile phones and two small bags of cocaine, indicating his involvement in the illegal drug trade.
Following the arrest, police conducted a search of England’s home and uncovered a further £13,000 worth of cocaine and £76,000 in cash, along with scales and other items linked to drug distribution.
England was charged with possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and possession of criminal property. Despite being remanded in custody, he refused to attend his trial at Basildon Crown Court in September 2024. However, after a two-day trial, a jury deliberated for just 30 minutes before finding him guilty on both charges.
On October 4, England was sentenced to six and a half years in prison. The cocaine was destroyed, and the £76,000 in cash was seized under the Proceeds Of Crime Act. This case highlights the serious consequences of drug trafficking and the efforts of the police to disrupt illegal activity in the area.
