Southport man jailed for five years after cocaine found near Scarisbrick car

A drug dealer has been jailed after being caught with cocaine following a police pursuit in Scarisbrick.

On 29 December last year, officers pursued a grey Chevrolet on Wyke Lane in Scarisbrick before locating two men on foot on Rimmer Green.

A search of the area led officers to the vehicle, which had been abandoned nearby. They also recovered a large quantity of white powder close to the car. Subsequent analysis confirmed it was cocaine, packaged into varying weights for individual deals ready to supply on the streets.

Following enquiries, Reece Dodd, 23, of Forest Road, Southport, was charged with possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, possession of a controlled Class B (cannabis) and dangerous driving.

Appearing at Liverpool Crown Court on Wednesday 4 November, Dodd pleaded guilty and was sentenced to five years in prison. He was also disqualified from driving for three years and eight months and will be required to take an extended driving test before being allowed back on the road.

Detective Inspector Kevin O'Rourke said: “Drug dealing is a blight on our communities, causes misery to families and is often linked to the exploitation of children. We are relentless in pursuing those involved in drug dealing and serious organised crime.

“Our work to bring those responsible to justice continues every day, and I would urge anyone with information about this type of criminality to come forward so action can be taken.”

Anyone with information about suspected drug dealing or criminal activity in their community can contact Merseyside Police social media desk via X or Facebook @MerPolCC.

Information can also be provided via the Merseyside Police website or by calling 101.

Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via its website.

In an emergency, always call 999.