A further three people have been charged as Operation Horizon continues. Operation Horizon is a large-scale investigation targeting county line drug supply in Barrow. Twenty two people have now been charged with various drug offences as part of the operation.
The operation, which started in May 2018, was in response to a high number of drugs deaths in the town occurring since December 2017.
The following people have now also been charged:
- Callum Gentle, aged 18, of Southerngate Way, Lewisham, London, is charged with conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, heroin and crack cocaine. He appeared at Barrow Magistrates Court on 9th January.
- Kelly Martin, 35, of Chester Place, Barrow, charged with supplying Class A drug, heroin. She appeared at Barrow Magistrates Court on 16th January.
- Rory Dixon, 36 of Keppel Street, Barrow, charged with offering to supply a Class A drug, crack cocaine. He appeared at Barrow Magistrates Court on 16th January.
They have all been remanded in custody and are due to appear at Preston Crown Court on the 7th February.
Three more people have also been arrested as part of the operation:
- On the 12th January, a 47-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of supplying Class A drug, crack cocaine. She has been bailed until 21st January.
- On the 14th January a 17-year-old male from London, was arrested on suspicion of conspiring to supply Class A drugs, heroin and crack cocaine. He has been released under investigation.
- On the 14th January a 19-year-old man from Barrow, was arrested on suspicion of conspiring to supply Class A drugs, heroin and crack cocaine and being concerned in the supply of a controlled Class B drug, cannabis. He has been released under investigation.
The latest update brings the total number of arrests to 32.
T/Superintendent, Matt Pearman, Said: “Operation Horizon was put in place to help address the high number of drugs deaths that Barrow experienced from the end of 2017 into 2018 and to tackle those criminals who cause misery by supplying drugs in our communities.
“Those concerned with county line drug dealing do not care whose lives are ruined. Their trade revolves around keeping people using, exploiting addicts and vulnerable people such as those experiencing depression or desperation. Each time someone takes an illegal drug they are putting their lives at risk; they are unregulated substances and no one can tell what is in them.
“For anyone reading this in the community who is experiencing issues with substance abuse, there is help out there. We work closely with partners including, Unity, The Well, CADAS and Women’s Community Matters, who all provide quality support for those looking to get out of the cycle of drug use.
“If you feel you are being exploited by those involved in drug dealing, I would urge you to contact police now. We are here to support you.”
