### Father-of-Two Caught with Crack Cocaine, Cannabis and Machete amid Major Drug Debt
A Cardiff father-of-two appeared in court after a police search at his home unearthed a cache of drugs and a dangerous weapon, highlighting the continuing challenge of drug-related crime in South Wales. James Berry, aged 31, was discovered with both crack cocaine and cannabis, in addition to a machete and various items typically associated with drug dealing.
The incident unfolded on 24 February 2025, when local officers executed a search warrant at Berry’s property in the Roath area of the city. Inside, police found a stash of narcotics, which included 48 individual wraps containing 0.3 grams each of crack cocaine – a substance classified in the highest tier of controlled drugs. The combined street value of the cocaine was estimated to be between £1,200 and £1,400, authorities reported to Cardiff Crown Court during the sentencing hearing.
Officers also seized multiple bags of cannabis, one of which weighed nearly 27 grams, with the total value of the marijuana assessed at around £350 to £420. Alongside the drugs, police located a “burner” mobile phone, commonly used in drug supply operations to facilitate communication with clients and avoid identification. Text message marketing, known as “text bombing,” had been conducted using the phone, sending bulk communications to potential drug buyers. While the phone’s messages could not be directly linked to Berry, its presence served as further evidence of involvement in the trade.
Berry, of Newport Road, candidly admitted to possessing the controlled substances with intent to supply. The court also heard that he was no stranger to the criminal justice system, having amassed 24 previous convictions, most notably for theft and a singular drug offence dating back to 2015. Prosecutors detailed his substantial role in the supply chain, suggesting Berry was not merely a passive participant but was fully aware of the operation’s scale and its financial motivations.
During mitigation, Leah Pollard, representing Berry, argued her client had become ensnared in drug distribution after accruing a significant drug debt. Describing the mounting pressure, she explained how Berry’s situation had “spiralled,” compelling him to participate further in illicit activities to alleviate his financial burden. His role as a parent of two young children was emphasised, though it was conceded Berry had also gained financially from his involvement.
Sentencing was delivered by Judge Shomon Khan, who addressed the serious implications linked to the supply of Class A substances. “You had a significant role in supplying drugs directly to users,” Judge Khan remarked, addressing Berry in the dock. The judge went on to highlight the expectation of profit and the necessity of imposing strict sentences on those engaged in distributing harmful drugs in the community.
Berry was subsequently handed a prison term totalling two years and four months – a sentence reflecting both the quantity of drugs involved and the clear evidence of his deep entanglement in Cardiff’s underground drug economy. The case shines a light on the wider social challenges posed by drug debt, as well as the risks to public safety associated with the possession of weapons during criminal activity.
Community leaders and law enforcement officials continue to express concern over the prevalence of drug-related violence and the impact it has on families. The presence of a machete at Berry’s property amplified anxieties about the potential consequences of drug disputes spilling over into violence.
Authorities urge residents to report suspected criminal behaviour and reinforce the importance of accessible support for individuals seeking recovery from addiction. As this case demonstrates, the grip of drug debt can have far-reaching and devastating effects not only on offenders but also on families and communities across Wales.