Byker dealer found with crack cocaine, heroin and cannabis jailed

Mark Simmonette appeared at Newcastle Crown Court, where he was jailed for just under three years after admitting to a string of offences.

Last July, officers working to tackle drug supply executed a warrant at Simmonette’s previous address in Walker where they seized quantities of crack, cocaine, heroin, and cannabis.

They also found thousands of Pregablin and Valium tablets.

The 33-year-old wasn’t present while detectives scoured the property, but he was tracked down a short time later, and within 24 hours had been arrested, charged and remanded. 

He was jailed for just under three years for the offences. Picture: Northumbria Police (Image: Northumbria Police)

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Simmonette, of Dibley Street in Byker, was jailed for 30 months after previously admitting three counts of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, three counts of possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs.

Speaking after the case, Sergeant Chris Johnson from the Force’s Serious and Organised Crime Investigation Team said: “It is only right that we continue to take strong action against those who try to profit from the sale and distribution of illegal and highly addictive drugs like heroin and crack cocaine.

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“Our communities do not want drug dealers like Simmonette living and working on their doorstep – and I am pleased he is now behind bars, and his drugs safely destroyed.

“We will continue to tackle serious and organised crime, and dismantle those groups who seek to seek drugs, as part of Operation Sentinel.

“We will also continue our work to identify those vulnerable to drug supply and exploitation as part of our combined activity with Newcastle City Council under the banner of Project Adder.”

Crack cocaine seized during drugs bust in North Tyneside. Picture: Northumbria Police (Image: Northumbria Police)

Picture: Northumbria Police (Image: Northumbria Police)

Mark Simmonette was jailed for just under three years for drug offences. Picture: Northumbria Police (Image: Northumbria Police)

Simmonette admitted to possession with intent to supply crack cocaine, heroin, cocaine, cannabis, Bensedin, and Pregabolin. Picture: Northumbria Police (Image: Northumbria Police)