Man jailed after cocaine stash tied to branded packaging

A driver stopped on the M53 admitted carrying a 4.514 kg cocaine stash hidden in Adidas and Dior blocks and was sentenced to four years in prison.

Man jailed after cocaine stash hidden in Adidas and Dior packaging

On March 27, a grey Kia Niro was stopped on the M53 southbound between junctions 4 and 5. Police found a black rucksack containing two blocks of cocaine, including one wrapped in Adidas packaging. A search of the home in New Brighton revealed three more packages, two with Adidas wrappings and one with a Dior logo, totaling 4.514 kg with an estimated value of up to £457,600. Cash £13,000 was also recovered. Hallsworth pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply and told officers he had been coerced by a gang threatening his family, though he admitted involvement in the offence.

The defence said he had previously worked in roofing before a injury and mental health problems worsened, leading to his involvement after being targeted by the gang. He has five prior convictions but no appearances since 2015. The judge described him as a vulnerable individual exploited by others and noted that he was under intimidation and pressure. He was sentenced to four years in prison after the guilty plea, with a hope from the court that he seeks necessary help on release.

This case highlights how criminal networks can exploit vulnerable people through fear and coercion. The branding on the drugs shows how traffickers try to blend with everyday objects, making concealment easier. The judge’s focus on mental health and exploitation points to broader questions about support systems for those drawn into crime and how the justice system can steer them toward rehabilitation while ensuring accountability.

Beyond the courtroom, the incident underscores the dangers families face when associates are pulled into criminal activity. It also raises questions about the balance between punishment and treatment for offenders who show signs of coercion or trauma, and how local services can intervene before people become entangled in trade that harms communities.

Highlights

The case spotlights the human costs behind drug trafficking and the need for better safeguards for those pulled into crime by fear.