Drug dealer tried to escape out of window

A DRUG dealer tried to jump out of an upstairs window and flush narcotics away when he was caught red-handed during a police bust.

- By ROB KENNEDY

Paul Hogarth was running a lucrative “street level” dealing operation with the help of “runner” Natalie Garrett, Newcastle Crown Court heard.

Despite not working and being on benefits, more than £80,000 went into his bank account over a two-year period. And when police raided his home in Gateshead, he was caught with drugs, cash and weapons.

Now Hogarth and Garrett have been locked up after they pleaded guilty to offences including conspiracy to supply cocaine.

Jane Foley, prosecuting, said: “Between January 2021 and January 2023, Mr Hogarth ran a street level drug supply business, helped by Natalie Garrett, who was a trusted runner or distributor.