Police recently raided the Cardiff home of Jordan Johnson and Karys Dando, uncovering a cannabis operation while their one-year-old son was present. The couple, both 35, were found with more than 50g of cannabis, which has a street value of up to £280. But that’s not all—officers also seized £1,699 in cash, scales with cannabis residue, a large machete, a baseball bat, and a golf club from their home.
Mobile phone messages revealed the duo’s deep involvement in the cannabis trade, with texts detailing their plans to supply significant quantities of the drug. Johnson was caught negotiating deals for up to nine ounces of cannabis, while Dando was orchestrating transactions and directing a “runner” to deal on their behalf.
Both pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply class B drugs. Johnson, who has previous convictions for similar offences, was handed a 12-month sentence, suspended for 18 months, along with community service. Dando, who also has a record of unrelated offences, received a nine-month suspended sentence and was placed under a curfew.
Despite no longer being in a relationship, the court acknowledged that both parents are focused on caring for their children. Johnson, with three kids, and Dando, with four, faced the prospect of prison, which could impact their families significantly. However, the court opted for suspended sentences, allowing them to stay home and prioritise their children’s well-being.