East Sussex Drug-Dealer Jailed After Evading Police For Nearly Four Years

Monday, 18 March 2024 06:48

A drug-dealer has been jailed after being on the run for nearly four years.

On July 21, 2020, police received an anonymous report that a drug-dealer was operating from an address in Marline Avenue, St Leonards.

When they entered the address, they found John Condeh sitting in an armchair.

He provided false details, and when the chair he was sitting in was searched, officers found a large bundle of suspected Class A drugs.

The 35-year-old, of High Street, Peckham, London, was subsequently arrested and found in possession of a set of car keys. Officers discovered the vehicle parked in a side street a short distance away and when searched, documents giving the suspect’s true identity were found along with approximately £1,400 in cash.

Following interview, Condeh was released on bail to allow for forensic examinations of the drugs and an examination of his phone.

Mobile analysis showed that the phone had made several journeys overnight in the time immediately before his arrest. Forensic examination of the drugs confirmed they were heroin and crack cocaine with an approximate street value of £400 (2020 prices). The inner wrappings also contained Condeh’s DNA.

The Crown Prosecution Service authorised charges of possession with intent to supply heroin and crack cocaine, and possession of criminal property (the cash found in the car) and a summons was issued.

However, Condeh didn't turn up at court and a warrant was issued. Despite efforts to locate him, he could not be found.

Sussex Police financial Investigators found that in 2023 Condeh had taken out an agreement for the purchase of a car. This vehicle was circulated to police forces nationally and on November 6, 2023, the vehicle stopped in south East London, with Condeh driving, and he was arrested.

Condeh subsequently pleaded guilty to the offences and on February 26 this year he was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court to 35 months’ imprisonment.