Police in Swansea were led straight to a drug dealer’s doorstep after a simple search of phone messages linked him to the illegal activity, a court has heard. Caden Evans, residing in Llwyn Derw, Fforestfach, Swansea, was jailed for dealing cannabis following a raid on his home. The police investigation began on September 10 when messages offering drugs for sale were found on another individual’s phone. The phone number tied to these messages belonged to Evans. Subsequently, on October 7, police conducted a search at Evans’s residence where they uncovered 23.3 grams of cannabis, 22 pouches of cannabis edibles, weighing scales, and an encrypted mobile phone which Evans refused to unlock. Despite his silence during the interview process, evidence on the phone pointed to his involvement in drug dealing.
During Evans’s court appearance at Swansea Crown Court, it was revealed that he had previous drug-related convictions, having been imprisoned for three years in 2022 and was on license at the time of the cannabis offenses. The judge emphasized that Evans played a significant role in drug dealing and had a history of relevant offenses. As a result, he was handed a 12-month prison sentence for offering to supply and possessing class B drugs, to be served concurrently. Additionally, Evans was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £187 within three months of his release. A Proceeds of Crime Act hearing was also scheduled for a later date to determine any financial gains from his illegal activities.
In court, it was mentioned that Evans’s partner was struggling to cover everyday expenses in his absence since his arrest. Recorder David Payne highlighted the impact of Evans’s actions on his partner, emphasizing the consequences of criminal behavior on loved ones. Despite the judge’s stern sentencing, Evans’s case sheds light on the ripple effects of drug-related offenses on families and communities. The search of phone messages that led to Evans’s arrest and subsequent imprisonment serves as a reminder of law enforcement’s ongoing efforts to tackle drug crimes and uphold the law.
In conclusion, the swift action taken by the police based on digital evidence showcases the importance of technological advancements in modern-day criminal investigations. Evans’s case serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the repercussions of engaging in illegal activities and the subsequent impact on personal relationships. As authorities continue to crack down on drug-related offenses, cases like Evans’s underscore the need for individuals to consider the far-reaching consequences of their actions on both themselves and those around them.