A young man who became involved in drug dealing at 17 has narrowly avoided a custodial sentence.
Alfie Thomas, formerly of Pinehurst, appeared at Swindon Crown Court on February 14 charged with being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin.
The court heard from prosecutor Mr Welling that the offences took place between December 13, 2022 and May 18, 2023, in Swindon when Thomas became involved in four separate drug lines linked to his mobile phone while living in the town.
He had used the device to call his mum, brother, pay for top-ups and call for taxis to his address, as well as organise drug deals.
After he was arrested, he gave a no-comment interview and tried to deny being involved in drug dealing, but Mr Welling referred to Thomas’ period of denial as “utterly fruitless.”
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He pleaded guilty to both offences shortly later on June 23, 2023.
Mr Wilkins, defending, explained in mitigation that Thomas was “acting under direction” and he committed the offences just before his 18th birthday, but had managed to stay out of trouble since, despite not having very much support from the probation service.
Thomas, who has no previous convictions, has also since moved to Ludgershall to commit to a fresh start.
Before sentencing Thomas, His Honour Judge Jason Taylor KC acknowledged the young man had been experiencing challenges with homelessness and played a lesser role in drug dealing, after being taken advantage of by others.
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"Anyone dealing drugs leaves a wake of disruption in their trail", he warned.
Judge Taylor told Thomas that he had a “strong prospect of rehabilitation and strong personal mitigating factors that he had taken into account when deciding on his sentencing.
“I want you to get assistance to continue the progress you have been making but now with some backup”, Judge Taylor added.
“No judge wants somebody, particularly a young man, to start their life off in prison.”
Thomas was sentenced to two years in prison suspended for two years and Judge Taylor acknowledged it would be “hanging over his head” as a deterrent for further offending.
He must also complete 10 rehabilitation activity days, 200 hours of unpaid work and pay a surcharge of £187.
Judge Taylor added: "If you comply with the order you've been given today, you won't hear anything more on this matter.
"The ball is in your court."
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