Last updated at 13:54, Thursday, 22 November 2012

A MICKLEY man has been found guilty of allowing his home to be used for the cutting and packing of cocaine.

Timothy Alsop (43), of North View, denied conspiracy to supply the class A drug, valued at between £2,500 and £5,000, but was convicted by a jury last Thursday following a trial at Newcastle Crown Court.

Prosecutor Christopher Knox said police had observed several men meeting up and driving to Alsop’s rented property, emerging around an hour later.

On being searched, one man was found to be in possession of 258 bags of cocaine, worth between £10 and £20 each.

A subsequent search of Alsop’s home also uncovered scales, numerous plastic bags, glucose and lactose, commonly used to cut the substance, bringing more profit for the dealer.

After being arrested, Alsop told police he had not given anyone permission to enter his home – although one of the men involved had helped him moved furniture into the property and may have noticed him leave his key under a brick outside.

Alsop, who runs his own business, Arcadia Plumbing and Heating, will reappear in court for sentencing on December 6.

Three other men – David Walton (39), of Park Lane, Prudhoe; Shaun Sharkey (28), of Tulip Street, Prudhoe; and Sean Rutherford (28), of Ovington View, Prudhoe – will also be sentenced for connected drugs charges.

First published at 07:40, Wednesday, 21 November 2012
Published by http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk