A 20-year-old man from Meols has been sentenced to 31 months in a youth offenders' institution after being identified as the controller of a significant drug supply line operating in Wirral. Dylan Frampton was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court after pleading guilty to multiple drug trafficking offences.
The conviction followed a targeted police raid on his home in June, which uncovered substantial evidence linking him to the criminal enterprise. The operation was part of a broader Merseyside Police initiative aimed at dismantling organised drug networks.
Key Takeaways
- Dylan Frampton, 20, of Birkenhead Road, Meols, was sentenced to 31 months' detention.
- He admitted to controlling a drug line supplying crack cocaine and heroin in Wirral.
- A police raid on his home recovered over £7,000 in cash, cannabis, and a dedicated drug phone.
- The arrest was part of Operation Toxic, a police effort targeting County Lines drug activity.
Police Raid Uncovers Criminal Operation
Dylan Frampton was arrested on June 17 after officers from Merseyside Police executed a warrant at his home address on Birkenhead Road in Meols. The raid was the result of an ongoing investigation into a drug supply network active in the Wirral area.
During the search of the property, police discovered key evidence linking Frampton to the drug trade. Officers seized more than £7,000 in cash, which was determined to be the proceeds of criminal activity. They also found a large, vacuum-sealed bag containing a significant quantity of cannabis.
A critical piece of evidence was the recovery of a "graft" phone, a mobile device used exclusively to run the drug line, coordinate sales, and communicate with customers. Analysis of this device was instrumental in establishing Frampton's role as the controller of the operation.
Court Proceedings and Charges
Following his arrest and the evidence gathered, Frampton was charged with several serious offences. These included being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs, specifically crack cocaine and heroin. He was also charged with possession with intent to supply a Class B drug (cannabis) and possession of criminal property, relating to the cash seized.
Charges Admitted by Frampton
- Concerned in the supply of crack cocaine
- Concerned in the supply of heroin
- Possession with intent to supply cannabis
- Possession of criminal property (£7,000+ cash)
Frampton appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on Monday, September 15. He entered guilty pleas to all charges presented against him. Acknowledging his role in the drug network, the court sentenced him to a total of 31 months to be served in a youth offenders' institution.
Wider Crackdown on County Lines
The investigation that led to Frampton's arrest, known as Operation Toxic, is a specific component of a much larger strategic initiative by Merseyside Police called Project Medusa. This force-wide project is dedicated to disrupting and dismantling County Lines drug networks.
Understanding County Lines
County Lines is a term used to describe drug-dealing networks where organised crime groups move drugs from major cities to smaller towns and rural areas. The model often involves the exploitation of children and vulnerable adults, who are coerced into transporting, storing, and selling drugs, using dedicated mobile phone lines or "deal lines".
These operations not only fuel drug addiction but also bring associated violence and exploitation into local communities. Project Medusa works with other police forces and agencies across the UK to tackle this problem comprehensively.
Detective Sergeant Peter Sloan commented on the outcome of the case and the ongoing police efforts to combat such criminal activity.
“This sentence sends a message that anyone involved in the supply of drugs will be brought to justice. County Lines activity causes real harm in our communities, exploiting vulnerable people and bringing violence and misery to our streets.”
Community Impact and Police Response
Detective Sergeant Sloan emphasised the commitment of the police to protecting communities from the harm caused by organised crime. He highlighted the collaboration with partner organisations under the EVOLVE Wirral operation, part of the national 'Clear, Hold, Build' strategy.
“We are committed to working with partners alongside our Clear, Hold, Build operation EVOLVE Wirral, to identify those immersed in drug-related activity, protect those at risk of exploitation and make sure offenders face the consequences of their actions,” he added.
Merseyside Police urges the public to be aware of the signs of County Lines exploitation. These can include a child or vulnerable person suddenly having new clothes, phones, or money they cannot account for, becoming secretive, or having unexplained injuries. Information and resources are available at the Eyes Open campaign website.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about drug dealing or criminal exploitation in their area to come forward. Reports can be made to Merseyside Police by calling 101 or contacting them via social media. For those who wish to remain anonymous, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111 or through their secure online form.