This is the moment Samuel Watts, 34, was arrested and sent back to jail just seconds after being released from a 14-month sentence.
Watts, already serving time for drug dealing, was found using a mobile phone to coordinate the sale of cocaine from his prison cell. During a police search, officers discovered an Apple iPhone strapped to his waist containing messages proving his involvement in drug sales.
Three months later, in November last year, police arrested Watts as he was leaving HMP Kirkham in Lancashire. Wearing a black puffer jacket and beanie, he swore at officers, saying, “Do you have any idea what I’ve been through the last three months?” before being handcuffed and taken away. He was also heard exclaiming “f*** you” while being led off.
Originally jailed for three years in September 2023 for supplying cocaine and cannabis and possessing a weapon, Watts’ actions revealed he saw his initial sentence as a mere inconvenience. He attempted to continue his drug business from behind bars by directing others lower in the chain.
At Burnley Crown Court on June 5, Watts was sentenced to four years and four months for drug dealing. Cheshire Constabulary’s PC Dan Lee commented on the case: “Watts underestimated the dedication of Northwich Proactive CID. We swiftly ended his activities and arrested him immediately upon release. Hopefully, this sentence will make him reconsider his choices.”
