Middlesbrough man sentenced after drug dealing caught on police drone
Junior Lavin avoids jail after suspended sentence for crack cocaine supply
Junior Lavin has received a suspended two-year sentence following his arrest for drug dealing in a Middlesbrough park, captured by a police drone.
The incident took place on 16th February in Albert Park, where Middlesbrough's Proactive and Neighbourhood Team officers deployed a drone upon reports of suspected drug activity.
Lavin, 19, from Pemberton Crescent, was witnessed carrying out a drug transaction on an electric bike, attempting escape from plain-clothed officers.
Following a brief chase, Lavin was arrested, and authorities seized over 30 deals of crack cocaine and two illegal bikes.
Charged with possession with intent to supply crack cocaine, possession of criminal property and driving without licence or insurance, Lavin was sentenced at Teesside Crown Court on 3rd August.
Sergeant John Sproson affirmed the police's commitment to tackling Class A drugs using all available resources, including drones, to remove drugs and illegal vehicles from Middlesbrough streets.
Residents are encouraged to report illegal bikes or related information to Cleveland Police via 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
Reports can also be made with the COPA app available on both Apple and Android platforms.