LIVERPOOL, UK — Tony Monroe, 35, has been sentenced to five years and seven months in prison after being found guilty of facilitating the supply of crack cocaine and heroin as part of a county lines drug gang. The operation, which was uncovered by officers from Cheshire Police, was responsible for supplying Class A drugs on a daily basis in the Warrington area.
The investigation into the gang began when officers identified three mobile phone numbers that had been used to advertise the sale of illegal drugs since November 4, 2024. Through their inquiries, it was revealed that Monroe was the key controller of the operation.
On December 11, 2024, police executed an arrest warrant at a holiday park in Rhyl, where Monroe was believed to be residing in a caravan. Upon his arrest on suspicion of Class A drug supply offences, officers conducted a search of the caravan and seized several items, including multiple mobile phones, £246 in cash, a quantity of cannabis, and drugs with a street value of more than £30,000.
The drugs included heroin worth over £8,900, as well as cocaine valued at more than £22,900. Monroe was subsequently charged with being concerned in the supply of heroin and cocaine, as well as possession with intent to supply.
Appearing before Liverpool Crown Court, Monroe pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to five years and seven months in prison. The sentence has been welcomed by Cheshire Police, with Inspector Robert Balfour noting the success of the operation and the significant drugs seized in the process. He said: “Monroe is facing a considerable custodial sentence for his role in bringing illegal drugs to the streets of Warrington. The dangers of drugs are well-known, and our fight against these illegal substances is never over.”
Inspector Balfour emphasized that Cheshire Police would continue their efforts to disrupt drug trafficking in the region and hold offenders accountable. The sentence serves as a reminder of the serious consequences for those involved in the illegal drug trade and the ongoing commitment to cracking down on county lines operations.
