Drug dealer jailed for running 'Griffin' county line in Norwich
Anthony Bates was arrested at a property on Marl Pit Lane, Norwich on 20th March 2024
A man has been jailed for running the ‘Griffin’ county line in Norwich.
Anthony Bates, aged 26 and of Marl Pit Lane, Norwich appeared at Norwich Crown Court on Friday 31 May 2024, after previously pleading guilty to being concerned in the supply of heroin, being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine, possession of a controlled drug, namely cannabis, and possession of criminal property.
The offences took place between 1 December 2023 to 20 March 2024 and relate to the supply of crack cocaine and heroin by a drug dealer network operating in Norwich.
Bates was arrested at a property on Marl Pit Lane, Norwich on 20 March 2024, following a search warrant carried out by the Norwich Neighbourhood Policing Team, after investigations found suspicions mobile phone activity that was consistent with the operation of a county line.
Analysis of data showed that hundreds of bulk messages were sent out via two drug line numbers that were known as the ‘Griffin’ line advertising drugs for sale.
During a search of the property, officers seized a quantity of crack cocaine and heroin along with cannabis, cash and a mobile phone, which was established as one of the handsets used to control the line.
Bates was taken to Aylsham Police Investigation Centre for questioning and was later charged.
He appeared at Norwich Crown Court (31 May 2024) and was sentenced to three years in prison.
PC Phil Mercer from the Norwich Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “This is another example of how we will continue to work hard in prosecuting those offenders who distribute drugs in Norfolk. County lines has a significant impact on our local communities, and we encourage people to report drug related activity to Norfolk Police.”