Drug Dealer’s Refusal to Provide Phone PIN Leads to Police Using Facial Recognition
In a recent court case at Swansea Crown Court, a cocaine dealer named Grant Lester from Clydach was sentenced to 38 months in prison for his involvement in cocaine dealing. Lester’s case took an interesting turn when he refused to provide the police with the PIN to his phone. In response, the officers simply held the device to his face and used the facial recognition feature to unlock it. This action revealed incriminating messages on Lester’s phone that exposed the extent of his drug dealing operation.
According to the prosecutor, Regan Walters, the police officer became suspicious of Lester’s activities when observing his car in the Uplands area of Swansea. The officer followed the car to different locations, eventually leading them to Lester’s residence on Station Road. Upon entering the house, officers found Lester in possession of diazepam tablets and a significant amount of high purity cocaine hidden under a cushion of a chair he was sitting in.
During the search, the police asked Lester for the PIN to his phone, but he claimed he couldn’t remember it. Officers then resorted to using the phone’s facial recognition feature to gain access, which later prompted Lester to reveal the PIN as he wanted his partner to be informed of his arrest. Messages on the phone revealed Lester’s involvement in drug supply activities, including references to restocking, making deliveries, and requests for drugs from customers.
In court, Lester pleaded guilty to charges of being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to supply, and possession of a Class C drug. His defence lawyer, John Allchurch, stated that Lester had turned to drug dealing to fund his increasing drug use, driven by mental health issues. Concerns were raised about the impact of a custodial sentence on Lester’s young daughter, highlighting the personal ramifications of his criminal activities.
Despite Lester’s remorse and concerns for his family, Judge Paul Thomas KC imposed a sentence of three years and two months in prison. With a one-third discount for his guilty pleas, Lester is expected to serve half of the sentence in custody before being released on licence. The judge remarked on Lester’s contradictory character, being well-respected by some while engaging in illegal drug activities unbeknownst to many.
The case of Grant Lester sheds light on the complexities of drug dealing and its repercussions on individuals and their families. The use of facial recognition technology by police to access incriminating evidence highlights the evolving methods in law enforcement. The sentencing serves as a reminder of the consequences of engaging in illegal activities and the impact it can have on one’s loved ones.