During sentencing, he was told he was ‘moving in a very bad direction’
Caine Connor was caught selling heroin and crack cocaine(Image: Humberside Police)
A teenage drug dealer was caught selling heroin and crack cocaine on the streets – and a knife was found on him – after police spotted furtive and suspicious activities going on, Hull Crown Court heard. Caine Connor, 18, admitted possessing heroin and crack cocaine with intent to supply in Hull on January 6. He also admitted possessing a knife.
Stephen Welch, prosecuting, said that police in Great Thornton Street, west Hull, saw Connor at the junction of Linnaeus Street at about 1.30pm. He and two youths were involved in hand-to-hand exchanges with known drug users.
“Officers recognised them, having seen them in Hull city centre,” said Mr Welch. “On previous occasions, they had managed to get away.” Police later saw them go into a discount store in Hessle Road.
All three of them were detained. A prosecution of the two youths was later dropped. Two mobile phones and £655 cash were found on Connor. Drugs and a further £32 cash were found.
“He was later searched and a knife was recovered from inside his belt,” said Mr Welch. “He was dealing drugs at the same time that he was carrying a knife.”
The total street value of the drugs was £2,160. A phone found on one of the youths had messages indicating drug supply.
During police interview, Connor made no comment to all questions. He had convictions for two previous offences, including assault causing actual bodily harm and possessing a blade.
Billy Torbett, mitigating, said that Connor had no previous drugs convictions. “He is remorseful for his offending,” said Mr Torbett. “He has significant maturity issues.
“Clearly, this defendant has a long way to go. This is likely to have played a significant part in his offending. There were two other males involved.
“This defendant isn’t the mastermind of this operation. He had very little schooling. He needs a 180 steer to get his life back on track.
“He has been remanded in custody since January 8. Custody has had a profound effect upon him.”
Recorder Ashley Serr told Connor: “You are moving in a very bad direction indeed. You are probably easily led.
“This is street dealing to others. The offence is so serious that only a custodial sentence is justified. It cannot be suspended.”
Connor, of Kirk Sandall, near Doncaster, was sent to a young offenders’ institution for two years. The £687 cash seized will be forfeited and given to the St Paul’s boxing club charity, Hull.
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