Drug dealer sentenced to spend over six years behind bars

A man who dealt drugs in Surrey was sentenced to six years and ten months’ imprisonment at Guildford Crown Court yesterday (5 January).

Josh Lake, 26, of Poole Road in Aldershot, was sentenced after pleading guilty to conspiracy to supply class A drugs and money laundering.

Lake’s offending came to light when officers arrested his companion Daniel Nelson, from Farnborough, on suspicion of supplying class A drugs, after finding nearly a kilo of cocaine in his home along with £50,000 in cash. Nelson’s phone was seized as part of the search, which contained numerous messages showing Lake buying large quantities of cocaine from him.

Whilst searching the address, officers arrested a second man, Beau West, on suspicion of supplying class A drugs when he turned up to the house with large amounts of cash and white powder. Beau West 31, from Ash Vale, was also found to be in contact with Lake, arranging the sale of drugs.

Lake was arrested at his home address on 6 September 2021. During a search of his address, officers found various drug paraphernalia including weighing scales, grip seal bags and £2000 in cash.

Detective Constable Alex Sarakinis, who investigated the case, said: “Drugs have a devastating impact on the communities around us, and it is a relief to see a class A dealer taken off of our streets and behind bars.

“We will continue to work tirelessly to stop drug supply in our county and bring dealers to justice. I would urge anyone who may have information about drug dealing in their community to please report it to us. Every piece of information helps us to build our intelligence and take action.”

Beau West, 31, of Balmoral Road in Ash Vale and Daniel Nelson, 32, of Nightjar Close in Farnborough, both pled guilty to conspiracy to supply class A drugs on 26 August 2021. They are awaiting sentencing.

If you are concerned about drug dealing in your area, contact us on 101 or via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always dial 999.

 

What are the signs of potential drug dealing?

• Lots of visitors, who don't stay very long, arriving at all times of the day and night
• People waiting in cars outside particular properties exchanging small packets or cash
• Lots of visitors bringing items such as TVs or bikes but leaving empty handed
• Lone/vulnerable neighbours suddenly having groups of young men living at their address

 

What we want to know:

• Time, date and place
• Vehicle registrations and the make, model and colour
• Descriptions of people and details of what they were doing