Police who raided the address of a Marksbury man found he was dealing Class A drugs. And further investigation revealed he had been doing so since he was aged 16.
Liam Banks threw two containers out of the window when police executed a drugs search at a home in September 2020. It was found Banks had quantities of cocaine, MDMA and cannabis.
Banks, 22, now of Corston near Bath, pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to supply Class A and B drugs. He also admitted being concerned in the supply of Class A and B drugs. Charges spanned from February 2016 to September 2020.
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The Recorder of Bristol His Honour Judge Peter Blair QC jailed him for three years. He conceded Banks had mental health difficulties, but told him: "You accept responsibility for you actions. This was a significant quantity of drugs and a significant period of time, done for financial advantage."
Ieuan Callaghan, prosecuting, told Bristol Crown Court police found cocaine in the containers Banks discarded and also seized scales, bags and lists of "customers". In total drugs recovered amounted to 35.78g of cocaine, 4.56g of MDMA and 1,021g of flowering head cannabis deemed to have a street value of £13,930.
Mr Callaghan said messages on Banks' phone indicated street drug dealing from February 2016, when he was aged 16. Analysis of his assets showed the part-time Kentucky Fried Chicken worker had £26,000 in the bank, a £30,000 BMW car and had banked some £65,000 between 2018 and 2020. A hearing later under the Proceeds of Crime Act will consider confiscation of any ill-gotten gains.
Ranjit Baines, defending, said his client had Asperger syndrome and learning difficulties. He said he had a stable accommodation, a very supportive family, was in a relationship and had the offer of a plumbing apprenticeship.
Mr Baines said: "Due to his Asperger's he may have been exploited and pressurised into committing these offences. He is quite introverted. He hasn't opened up about why he was dealing from 16."
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