On-the-run criminal found hiding in trouble-hit Stoke-on-Trent hotel

On-the-run drug dealer has been jailed for two years. Charlie Banks was arrested at The George Hotel in Burslem after he fled matters he faced in Sussex.

Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court heard the 25-year-old was located in a room at the hotel on July 24, 2022. Prosecutor Emmanuel Coniah said: "He was searched and officers found 21 grams of cocaine in a waistband, in a white plastic bag. They also found three mobile phones and a book containing names and numbers which related to drug dealing."

Banks, of HMP Aylesbury, pleaded guilty to possession of a class A drug with intent to supply. The court heard Banks is currently serving an eight-and-a-half year sentence he received for conspiracy to supply class A and B drugs and conspiracy to commit arson. His earliest release date is October 25, 2026.

Paul Cliff, mitigating, said: "He is serving a significant custodial sentence for identical matters. He is using the time constructively and has become a peer mentor."

Judge Michael Maher said: "In effect, you were on the run from matters in Sussex. You were found at The George Hotel in Burslem. You volunteered that you had 21 grams of cocaine in your possession. There were three phones and notebooks with names and numbers.

"It is clear you were dealing in very significant numbers of drugs.

"You are entitled to a concurrent sentence as all matters should have been dealt with in the round."

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