A drug dealer has been jailed after cocaine was found hidden in crisp packets during a raid at a property in Lancaster.
James Watters, 45, from Heaton House, was sent to prison for three and a half years after being found guilty of possessing with intent to supply class A drugs and possession of criminal property, following a trial last month at Preston Crown Court.
The court heard that local neighbourhood police officers executed a drug warrant at the defendant’s flat back in September 2025.
Constables found the occupants unwilling to open the door and forced it open with their enforcer. Once inside occupants including Watters were secured in handcuffs and a search was undertaken.
Police found multiple bags of white powder, scales to weigh out drugs, lists and £500 in cash. The white powder was found hidden within sealed packets of crisps. The powder was tested and confirmed to be cocaine, with the total amount recovered, valued on the street to be up to £7,600.
PC Shaun Foster from Lancaster Area Police said: ‘’Will we ever stop drugs in our communities? Perhaps not, but with your help we can continue to disrupt those who put these dangerous substances into our communities, profiting on the harm they cause to our family and friends ruining their lives.
‘’You can report drug dealing on our website or tell Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.’’


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