Guildford Drug Dealer Jailed

Published on: 29 Aug, 2023
Updated on: 30 Aug, 2023

David Hitchens

A man who dealt cocaine in Guildford has been sentenced to three years behind bars at Guildford Crown Court today (August 29) after an extensive investigation by the Serious Organised Crime team.

David Hitchens, 47, of Lime Grove, Bellfields, Guildford, was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment for being concerned in the supply of cocaine, three years’ imprisonment for possession with intent to supply cocaine and six months’ imprisonment for possession of cannabis, all to run concurrently.

An investigation into Hitchens was launched after police intelligence uncovered evidence that he was dealing cocaine throughout Surrey.

Using mobile phone data and automatic number plate recognition technology, officers were able to tie multiple phone numbers responsible for sending out bulk adverts for drugs to Hitchens.

After downloading the contents of the phones, they were also able to corroborate messages on the phone requesting money to deposits made into his bank accounts.

Hitchens was arrested at his home in March this year, where officers found 14 wraps of cocaine and weighing scales.

PC Simon Laidlaw, from the Serious Organised Crime Unit who investigated the case, said: “Our relentless pursuit of Hitchens has meant that he is now off the streets of Guildford and unable to cause further harm to the local and wider Surrey community.

“Intelligence is key to our ability to take down drug dealers, and I would urge anyone who suspects drug dealing in their area to report it to us so we can build that bigger picture of offending and hold perpetrators to account for their devastating actions.”

A police spokesperson said: “If you are concerned about drug use or drug dealing in your area, contact us online or via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always dial 999.

“The signs of potential drug dealing are:

Lots of visitors, who don’t stay very long, arriving at all times of the day and night
People waiting in cars outside particular properties exchanging small packets or cash
Lots of visitors bringing items such as TVs or bikes but leaving empty handed
Lone/vulnerable neighbours suddenly having groups of young men living at their address.

“What we want to know: