A man has been jailed after being found with a secret stash of drugs cleverly hidden inside everyday items. Michael Morgan, a 52-year-old drug dealer, was caught with heroin and cocaine concealed within a fake fire extinguisher in his car. This incident marked the fourth time that Morgan has been apprehended for dealing Class A substances, having previously served three substantial custodial sentences. During his recent arrest, police discovered not only drugs but also weapons and over £1,200 in cash in his vehicle.
Swansea Crown Court heard that Morgan was spotted by a vigilant police officer in the Hafod area of Swansea. The officer observed a suspicious exchange near Morgan’s car, leading to his subsequent arrest. Upon searching Morgan and his vehicle, law enforcement found a significant amount of drugs, including heroin hidden in a modified fire extinguisher and cocaine concealed in a Lynx deodorant can. Additionally, various drug paraphernalia and offensive weapons were uncovered during the investigation.
Prosecutors revealed that Morgan had a history of drug-related offences dating back to 1987, culminating in multiple convictions for cocaine and heroin trafficking. Despite pleading guilty to the recent charges, Morgan received a stern seven-year prison sentence from Judge Paul Thomas KC. The judge highlighted Morgan’s recurrent criminal activities and emphasised that his sentences would only become harsher if he continued down the same path.
Morgan’s defence counsel acknowledged the inevitability of a lengthy prison term for his client, attributing Morgan’s relapse into drug dealing to personal struggles following a period of being drug-free. Despite receiving a reduced sentence for his guilty pleas, Morgan was sentenced to serve a total of seven years in prison, with the possibility of release on license after serving half of his term.
The case of Michael Morgan serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of drug dealing and the harsh penalties that await those who choose to engage in such illegal activities. The courts have shown a firm stance against drug trafficking, especially in cases where individuals persist in committing such offences despite prior convictions.