1 week Ago By [email protected] (David Huntley)
A drug dealer began dealing cocaine to pay off his debts after forming a "habit he couldn't afford". Lewis Yip was caught in possession of six wraps of cocaine when police pulled over his car in Jesmond in September 2022. When officers examined his mobile phone, messages relating to drug dealing were discovered.
Newcastle Crown Court heard that Yip was also being provided with a step-by-step guide from an unknown person on how to deal drugs, advertise them and collect debts. Significant sums of money were also being paid into his bank account, with a significant amount being paid back out to the dealer he was taking instruction from. Yip, formerly of Beech Avenue, in Cramlington , but now of David's Way, in Haddington, Scotland, appeared at the court on Monday to be sentenced for possessing a class A drug with intent to supply and possessing or acquiring criminal property.
The 27-year-old had pleaded guilty to the offences. On September 18, 2022, police were on patrol in Osborne Road in Jesmond when they saw Yip driving in a "suspicious" manner. Officers pulled him over and found two passengers in the vehicle.
Matthew Hopkins, prosecuting, said: "The vehicle was searched and six wraps of white powder were found in the passenger side door pocket." The wraps amounted to 1.78g of cocaine, with a street value of between £180 to £240.
Mr Hopkins said: "His mobile phone was analysed and showed messages concerned with the supply of drugs. The defendant was receiving detailed instructions from somebody else on exactly what he should be doing and how to collect debts and advertise drugs - step-by-step instructions." Yip's bank statements showed significant amounts of money going into his Starling account.
He received over £7,700 from different people, which the court heard were likely drug users. He was then transferring large sums of money to the person who was instructing him what to do. Mr Hopkins added: "There were significant amounts going in [to his account] but also going out.
He was clearly acting under direction." Ian West, defending, said Yip had no previous convictions and was of previous good character. He said: "The offences were committed two-and-a-half years ago and the prosecution cannot say why it has been delayed.
At the time of the offending he was living with his mum in Newcastle. "He had become a heavy user of cocaine and formed a habit he couldn't afford. He was required by his dealers, his creditors, to work it off, that's how he got involved.
" Mr West said that following his arrest, Yip moved to Scotland and re-established a connection with his dad. He is now working as an Uber driver. Judge Robert Adams sentenced Yip to 22 months prison, suspended for 18 months.
He must also undertake 240 hours unpaid work. A proceeds of crime hearing will take place on Wednesday, June 25. Join our Court and Crime WhatsApp community for all the latest court and crime news sent direct to your phone.
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