Drug-dealing Stockton dad-of-two jailed for nearly four years

Jack Harrison was caught with more than £5,000 worth of cocaine when police raided his mother’s home.

Officers recovered the keys to a Mercedes car and designer goods, including a £10,000 Rolex, when they searched the 30-year-old’s Stockton home.

Shada Mellor, prosecuting, said the search also uncovered a 0.61g sealed bag of cocaine, a lock knife with residue on the blade, drug paraphernalia including scales and grip sealed bags, and six mobile phones. 

Teesside Crown Court heard Harrison describe how he had been drawn into drug dealing to repay his debts.

In a powerful letter read out in court, the defendant acknowledged that he deserved to be jailed for his crimes and apologised for bringing shame on his family.

He added: “I have seen first-hand the devastating impact has had upon my family without me by their side mentally and emotionally. The damage it had caused to my children’s educational needs.

"I am ashamed of my behaviour. I’m ashamed of rendering myself incapable of dependability as a partner and a father.

“They don't deserve the pain and embarrassment.”

Turning to how became embroiled in the drugs world, he added: "I was threatened that I would be burned with acid and that a jeep would be put through my house, so saying no to these people was not a danger I could chance.

"I have no previous convictions of this nature and I was forced into a world I did not understand or belong.

“I welcome this sentence with both hands as I feel custody has saved my life. It has shown me that I don't belong in a world with criminals.”

Jack Harrison (Image: Cleveland Police)

Harrison, of Rothbury Avenue, Stockton, was jailed for 45 months after admitting possession with intent to supply, three counts of possessing criminal property, and possession of class B and class C drugs.

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Robert Mochrie, mitigating, said Harrison turned to drug dealing to pay off his debt after being put under pressure by the people wanting their money back.

He said: "He found himself in debt to credit card providers and he sought out assistance from someone, he has not named, who loaned him money to repay the legitimate debt.”

Sentencing Harrison, Recorder David Brooke KC said: “I sincerely hope that this is a turning point for you and that you can change your life.

A proceeds of crime act hearing will take place early next year.