Drugs line's ringleader was ex-carer in mental hospital

Police found £3,000 worth of cocaine inside Haribo tub in 25-year-old’s home

- Sentinel Reporter

TWO men have been jailed for their part in a conspiracy to supply cocaine in Stoke-on-Trent.

Junaid Iqbal, aged 25, was the central point of the three-month conspiracy and has been jailed for 40 months at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court.

Timothy Smith, aged 33, who had a cocaine habit, was jailed for 27 months.

Two others - Iqbal’s partner, Ruby Rowson, aged 22, and Aaron Russell, aged 26 - were also part of the conspiracy.

They were spared jail, with each being sentenced to two years in prison, suspended for two years.

Russell was ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work and Rowson must complete a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement.

Prosecutor Nick Tatlow said police busted the conspiracy in April 2022 after investigating a phone line.

Mr Tatlow said: “On April 14, 2022 police went to Iqbal’s home in Ford Green Road. He and his partner, Rowson, were arrested.