In a significant development in the fight against drug distribution in Crawley, Omar Shackleton has been sentenced to three years and one month in prison for his involvement in the ‘JJ’ County Drug Line. Shackleton, 31, was found guilty of running Class A substances in the town.
Following extensive police enquiries, a warrant was executed at Shackleton’s home in Halstead Place, Halstead, Kent, on 8 March. During the search, officers discovered approximately £5,035 in cash, drug paraphernalia, numerous mobile phones, and a lump of brown substance which was later confirmed to be 40g of heroin mixed with Xzylazine and other cutting agents, valued at £4,000 on the street. An extendable baton, classified as an offensive weapon, was also seized.
Shackleton was charged with possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, possession of criminal property, and possession of an offensive weapon. He pleaded guilty to all charges and was remanded in custody. On 2 July, he appeared before Lewes Crown Court, where he received his sentence.
Shackleton’s arrest was part of Sussex Police’s County Lines Intensification Week, which took place from 4-10 March. His conviction follows the charges of two additional defendants linked to the ‘JJ’ line, highlighting the ongoing efforts to tackle drug-related crime in the area.
