Man jailed for running county line drug operation in East Surrey
Aaron Austin sentenced to nine years for drug offences and firearm possession
A 22-year-old man has been jailed for nine years after operating a county lines drug line across East Surrey.
Aaron Austin, of Coulsdon, London, pleaded guilty to charges involving the supply of heroin, crack cocaine, and cannabis, possession of criminal property, and possession of a firearm.
The drug line was identified in late 2024 as operating around Epsom. Investigators linked it to a mobile device used to send bulk messages consistent with drug supply between November 2024 and February 2025.
Austin was arrested by the Metropolitan Police on 17th February 2025 in Purley, on suspicion of the supply of Class A drugs. A subsequent search at an address connected to Austin in Redhill revealed a firearm wrapped in a scarf, drug paraphernalia, a knife containing white residue, and a large sum of cash.
In interviews, Austin admitted involvement in drug supply dating back to October 2024 but initially denied owning the firearm. However, videos showing him holding and firing an identical weapon, identified by its distinctive features, led to his charge for possession of a firearm.
He was sentenced to nine years at Guildford Crown Court on 9th December.
Investigating officer PC Bush from Surrey Police’s Centurion team called Austin a "key conductor" of a county line drug operation that moved substantial quantities of drugs.
"We know that county lines gangs prey on the most vulnerable members of the community for their own benefit," PC Bush said. "Our priority is to protect those most at risk as well as the wider public, and we will continue our work to tackle this issue."
Centurion was formed in 2020 to specifically address county line criminal activities across Surrey and Sussex.
PC Bush added, "Information provided by the public is crucial in our efforts to combat drug dealing and associated activities. Any detail, no matter how small, could be vital in helping us build a comprehensive picture of what is happening where, and could be the key to dismantling a county line."
Reports can be made via live chat or the online reporting form on the Surrey Police website. Alternatively, anonymous information can be shared through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
In case of emergencies, the police advise individuals to always call 999.