A POLICE chief has welcomed the jailing of a Flintshire drug dealer - and warned others that officers take a "zero tolerance" approach to such crimes.

The Leader reported on Wednesday how 32-year-old Damien Burt, of Tan Y Bryn, appeared at Mold Crown Court for sentence.

He'd previously admitted numerous offences including possession with intent to supply class A drugs, being concerned in the supply of class A drugs, possession of class B drugs and possession of criminal property.

Karl Scholz, prosecuting, told the court that on more than one occasion since January 2021, the defendant and his home had been searched by police.

Thousands of pounds in cash were seized, as were quantities of crack cocaine, heroin, methadone, cannabis and flualprazdam.

A police expert said the defendant had been operating "between middle market supply and street dealer" levels after analysis of his phone and seized dealer lists were analysed.

Burt received an overall jail term of three years and four months.

Following the sentencing, Chief Inspector Emma Parry said: “I’m extremely proud of the Flintshire South team, led by Inspector Iwan Jones, for the hard work, tenacity and dedication that’s gone into building a strong case to be presented to court, which has clearly paid off.

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“However, this result is not only testament to the hard work and dedication of the officers involved, but also to the support we received from the public, who assist greatly in tackling this crime that has such a detrimental effect on people’s lives.

“We have zero tolerance for the use of illegal drugs within our community and hope that this sentence sends a strong message that we will continue to pursue anyone who intends to participate in criminal activity.

“I would ask anyone who has any information about those supplying or selling drugs in their area to contact us so we can take action. We will continue to strive to make North Wales the safest place to live, work and visit in the UK.”