Sheffield man sent to prison after 40kg of drugs found in property

A 20-year-old man from Sheffield is starting an eight-year sentence in prison after more than 40kg of drugs were found in his property and vehicle.

A warrant was executed on Harrison Utley's property in Ecclesfield in March following intelligence it was linked to significant drug supply.

During a search of the property, officers found large quantities of Class A drugs, money and paraphernalia associated with dealing drugs inside.

Police say three Rolex watches, a diamond bracelet and designer clothing worth over a combined £46,000 highlighted Utley’s payment for his involvement in the distribution of cocaine and ketamine.

Detective Chief Inspector Anthony Slater explains more about the warrant, he said: “The expensive items immediately showed us that Ultley was being rewarded for his efforts in housing and distributing drugs from Sheffield.

“Officers found 26.2kg of cocaine inside the property, which was very close to the importation state of the drugs supply chain, and £97,064 in cash, stored in a utility cupboard.

“Further searches of Utley’s van, parked outside his property resulted in 15kg of Ketamine being seized. Other items, including a money counting machine, weighing scales and weights were also found.”

Ultley had no explanation of how or why he was in possession of such quantities of drugs and cash. Enquiries into the items seized showed that Utley’s DNA was present on the weighing scales, and surgical gloves, suggesting he was directly involved in the handling of the drugs.

DCI Slater continued: “We quickly charged Utley with possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and possession of criminal property.

“During all Utley’s interviews he showed no remorse for his actions, or how the drug supply has damaging implications on our communities.

“The proceeds from crime leads to further criminality in our communities and the organised crime links cause fear and harm to innocent people.

“Our efforts to bring those involved in drugs, organised and violent crime before the courts will continue.”

Utley appeared before Sheffield Crown Court last week (Friday 13 October) after pleading guilty at a previous hearing.

He was sentenced to eight years for class A drug offences. He received a further four-years for class B drug offences and one year for criminal property charges, these will run concurrently to his eight- year sentence.

The cash, watches and designer goods will be subject to a forfeiture order and seized.