**Cocaine Dealer Caught in Swansea Claims Addiction Drove His Crimes**
A Swansea man has been handed a prison sentence after being discovered with cocaine in a city centre incident that highlighted the ongoing challenges of drug-related crime in Welsh towns. Keiron David, aged 41, attempted to explain his criminal activity to police by citing his struggle with addiction, saying, “I’m an addict and this is why I does what I does,” after he was apprehended during a routine patrol.
The incident unfolded on the evening of Saturday, 8 March, when South Wales Police officers on duty in Swansea’s bustling Wind Street noticed David behaving suspiciously at around 9pm. Upon their approach, officers informed David he would be searched. In what appeared to be an effort to evade arrest, David tried to flee, yet officers were able to detain him a short distance away.
During the ensuing search, police discovered several small bags containing a white powder, which had apparently slipped from David’s underwear. Subsequent forensic analysis confirmed the substance was cocaine, a Class A drug, the possession and distribution of which carries significant penalties under UK law. Confronted with the evidence, David initially maintained that the drugs were for his personal use, citing his addiction as motivation.
However, the police investigation did not end there. Acting on suspicion that his role extended beyond personal consumption, police executed a warrant at David’s address on Eaton Road, Swansea. Their search uncovered a further bag of cocaine and digital scales, items commonly associated with the preparation and distribution of illegal substances. Further damning evidence was found when officers examined David’s mobile phone, revealing text messages indicative of drug dealing activity.
Faced with these findings, David ultimately admitted his role in supplying cocaine, alongside charges for possession with intent to supply and simple possession of the drug. His case came before Swansea Crown Court for sentencing on 14 May, where he pleaded guilty to all related offences. The court heard that David’s actions were not merely a consequence of personal addiction, but part of a broader pattern of illegal supply.
The judge sentenced David to two years and eight months in prison, reflecting both the severity of his crimes and the dangers posed by the supply of Class A drugs on the streets of Swansea. In his remarks, the presiding judge highlighted the public safety implications of drug dealing and noted the ongoing efforts of local police to curb the trade.
Speaking after sentencing, PC Howarth of South Wales Police commented on the case: “Police officers are regularly patrolling Swansea’s city centre at all hours to keep it safe for everyone. Keiron David was openly drug dealing, showing total disregard for the law and the community.” He added, “As experienced police officers, we know what to look for, and it was only a matter of time before David was caught. Now, he will have time in prison to reflect on his actions.”
This latest case draws attention to the persistent challenges faced in addressing both drug addiction and the criminal trade that thrives around it. The intersection between substance abuse and the supply of controlled substances continues to complicate law enforcement efforts, with many offenders citing personal struggle as partial explanation for their crimes.
Nevertheless, the authorities maintain a firm stance on drug-related offences, reaffirming commitments to proactive patrolling and community safety throughout Swansea and across Wales. The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences for those found dealing drugs and the importance of sustained police efforts in reducing the impact of illicit substances on local communities.