A LONDONER has been jailed for his role in county lines drug supply in Bridgwater.

Kwesi Williams, 26, of Wandsworth was sentenced at Taunton Crown Court on Wednesday (February 23) after admitting being concerned in the supply of heroin, crack cocaine and cannabis in April and May 2021.

He was jailed for five years and 30 weeks for the heroin and crack cocaine charges and a further three years, to be served concurrently, for the cannabis charge.

Sentencing, Judge Paul Cook said police had seized the drugs along with mobile phones, cash and cutting agents from two London addresses linked to Williams.

The judge described Williams’ dealing as causing suffering to the mental and physical health of users and the crime committed to fund their habit affecting the wider community.

He said Williams was operating the line from London with “substantial influence” on others in the chain.

Following the case, DS Jonathan Atkin, of Avon and Somerset Police, said: "County lines continues to be a significant national problem which often involves the exploitation of vulnerable individuals to perpetuate the supply of illegal drugs which cause harm to our communities.

“This conviction and sentence is the result of hard work and dedication by the investigating officer PC Jessie Vallance with support from officers in teams dedicated to tackling drug crime in both Avon and Somerset and the Metropolitan Police Service.

“It sends a clear message that those individuals involved in transporting harmful drugs into our towns and villages will be brought to justice.”

A force spokesperson said drug crime has devastating consequences for our communities and often dealers target the most vulnerable people within them.

There is a dedicated police working with communities, partner agencies and other police services regionally and nationally to bring perpetrators to justice.

If you or someone you care for is affected by drug use, there is information on the support and advice available on Somerset County Council’s website.

If you have information on drug crime, talk to your neighbourhood team, use the force's online reporting page or call 101.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via the charity's anonymous online form.