A “GO-BETWEEN” for dealers selling cocaine on the streets of Pendle has been locked up for two years three months.
Jobless addict Edward Geddes took drugs orders on his phone from users which he passed on to suppliers in Nelson over three days. Geddes was said to have been “coerced” into acting on behalf of those further up the chain after running up a debt to the tune of £1,400 for having drugs provided before payment, Burnley Crown Court heard.
The hearing was told Geddes was caught out after the landlady of the Union Exchange pub in Colne had suspicions about what was going on in the toilets and called the police. The defendant had two wraps of cocaine on him and while he was being searched at the police station, his iPhone was flashing up messages from people wanting to buy drugs. Officers also found £225 cash on him.
Geddes (34), of Bevan Place, Nelson, admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine and possessing the drug. The defendant will not face a proceeds of crime hearing.
Mr Stephen Parker (prosecuting) said police found three messages on the defendant’s phone. The defendant was interviewed and put forward a written, prepared statement. He admitted possessing cocaine, said it was for personal use and denied any intention to supply any drugs.
Mr Mark Stuart, for Geddes, said he had no previous convictions for drugs. He had been on benefits for some time and had found himself in great financial difficulties. By February this year, he had got himself into £1,400 debt with drug dealers in Nelson. He was going to get a compensation payment and thought he would be able to pay.
Mr Stuart continued: “He has now paid that debt off with the compensation . They were increasing pressure for the money, he didn’t have the money and effectively he was coerced into acting on behalf of these people.”