Yusuf Abdullahi
He was found guilty by a unanimous verdict and sentenced yesterday (Monday 25 April 2016) during a re-trial at Canterbury Crown Court. The Jury in his first trial in January 2016 failed to reach a majority verdict.
Canterbury Crown Court heard that as the officers, who were plain clothed, approached Abdullahi and stated they were police, he appeared to be trying to swallow something, but missed his mouth and the item bounced onto the floor. The item was seized and later tested which confirmed it was a wrap of cocaine.
Other items were also seized from Abdullahi including two bags of cannabis, £330 in cash, a mobile phone and some keys which had the address of a local flat on them.
He was taken to the address shown on the keys where officers found more than 35 wraps which were tested and found to be either cocaine or heroin. Officers also discovered three blue pills, portable scales and two mobile phones.
He was subsequently charged with four offences: Possession of Crack Cocaine, a class A drug with intent to supply; Possession of Diamorphine, a Class A drug, with intent to supply; Possession of Cannabis, a class B drug with intent to supply; and possession of criminal property, namely £330, under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
He denied the offences and claimed he was in Dover to visit a friend. He said it was his choice to own three mobile phones and the cash had been given to him by his family to support himself.
Detective Constable Dennis Webster said: "I'm pleased with this result at it sends a very strong message that if you travel to Dover from London, or any other place, and start supplying drugs to local people, we will do all we can to track you down, and bring you to justice."
