Dad jailed after 1,000 ecstasy pills and £12,000 worth of MDMA intercepted in Coventry

A dad who imported ecstasy from abroad as part of a drugs conspiracy has been jailed. Ryan Mason had ordered more than 1,000 ecstasy pills but was caught red-handed when the package was intercepted in Coventry.

Police, the National Crime Agency, and the UK Border Force launched an investigation in May 2022 when the package was intercepted in Coventry on its way to Hartlepool. It contained over 1,000 ecstasy pills and more than £12,000 worth of MDMA.

Officers raided an address in Hartlepool and found a further 3,000 ecstasy tablets worth an estimated £30,000. Over £5,000 in cash and drug paraphernalia was also seized.

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Mason, from Hartlepool, was arrested, charged, and appeared at Teesside Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to the importation and possession of Class A drugs. He was jailed for five years and six months on Friday (November 15).

Mitigating Martin Scarborough said that since the offences took place over two years ago, Mason has become a dad and his partner is expecting another child. Mr Scarborough said: “He stresses they were not trying because he knew what was coming today.”

Detective Sergeant Neil Lovat, from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), said: “A further example of the lengths we and our partners will go to protect communities from the devastating impact of drug supply. It shows our commitment and our resources and how together we can continue our work to disrupt and dismantle serious and organised crime.”

DS Lovat added: “If you see anything suspicious in your community, always report it via 101 or in an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, always ring 999. Alternatively, you can also report information anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

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