‘County Lines’ Dealer Jailed

A teenage drug dealer caught red handed in Market Harborough has been jailed for two years.

Anfernee Duke was found with several wraps of crack cocaine and heroin when Police raided the hotel room he was staying in on October 1st last year.

Anfernee Duke

The 18-year-old was arrested at the Travelodge on Abbey Street, where officers found the drugs, a large amount of cash and two mobile phones.

Leicester Crown Court heard the substances, with a street value of thousands of pounds, were destined to be sold on the streets of Market Harborough and the supply was linked to so-called ‘County Lines’ dealing.

That is the term used to describe the supply of illegal drugs, typically from a larger urban centre to smaller towns or rural areas, through the manipulation and exploitation of vulnerable people.

Duke, of Corporation Road, Gillingham, Kent, pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

Detective Constable Chris Fox was the investigating officer. He said: “When we arrested Duke he was found with a number of wraps of drugs which were heading for the streets of Market Harborough.

“This was a significant result in the supply of drugs in this area.

“Drugs misuse is a serious crime and one that not only affects the local community but also can lead to the breakdown of families and friendships.

“We are pleased that Duke has admitted his involvement in the supply of these illegal substances. We hope this result reassures the local community that we do take their concerns extremely seriously and will leave no stone unturned to identify those responsible for such offences.”