Former Elswick drug dealer back behind bars after being caught with blade for second time
A former drug dealer is back behind bars after being caught in the street with a knife for a second time.
As reported at the time, Bryan Reinosa-Toassa was jailed for three years and one month in July 2023 for possession of a knife and possession of cocaine and crack cocaine with intent to supply after he was spotted dealing by a police officer in the Elswick area of Newcastle. The 27-year-old was released on licence in July last year and was still on licence when police spotted him acting suspiciously in Byker on Monday, February 3, a court heard.
Reinosa-Toassa was searched and found to be in possession of a knife, which he later told police he was carrying to stop him getting "sliced up", prosecutors said. Reinosa-Toassa, of George's Road, in Elswick, is now back behind bars after he pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article at Newcastle Magistrates' Court.
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Prosecutor, Jonathan Moore, said it was around 12.45pm when an officer was on duty on Shields Road, in Byker, and saw Reinosa-Toassa acting suspiciously. Mr Moore continued: "The defendant is searched and a knife was located in his left jacket pocket.
"He was arrested and later asked why he was carrying it and he said 'Because I get into trouble everywhere and I can use this to stop me getting sliced up'."
Jack Lovell, defending, said Reinosa-Toassa suffered from mental health problems and had been sectioned in the past. Mr Lovell added: "He was homeless until early December when he finally secured some accommodation."
Deciding to commit Reinosa-Toassa to Newcastle Crown Court for sentence, District Judge Kate Meek said: "Whoever sentences you should have access to greater sentencing powers. Until then, I'm remanding you in custody.
"If I give you bail, there is a real risk of you committing further offences." Reinosa-Toassa will next appear at Newcastle Crown Court on March 4.