Yapton couple sentenced for supplying cocaine to Bognor Regis community

A couple from Yapton have been sentenced for their part in the supply of cocaine in the Bognor Regis area, and for acquiring and possessing criminal property.

On 20 November 2020, a white BMW was stopped by police on the A259 at Bognor Regis.

The occupants, 42-year-old Kevin Griffin and his 32-year-old partner Sam Halliwell, both of Tiller Close, Yapton, were arrested.

A subsequent search of a bedroom at their home address led to the recovery of almost half a kilogram of cocaine with an estimated street value of £51,000.

A quantity of cash totalling almost £8,000 was also recovered together with various weapons and other drug paraphernalia.

The investigation was able to evidence that both were involved in supplying cocaine to drug users in the local area, with arrangements for delivery made via mobile phone.

At Portsmouth Crown Court on Thursday 16 June, HHJ Melville heard how both Halliwell and Griffin had admitted their guilt at an early stage in the criminal proceedings.

He sentenced both to two years’ imprisonment, suspended for two years. A Proceeds of Crime Act hearing will take place at a later date.

Detective Inspector Alan Pack, from the West Sussex Community Investigation Team, said: “We will continue to target those within our community who seek to cause harm by supplying illegal drugs.

“We rely on the public to help us, and ask anyone with information regarding the misuse of drugs to report it online or by calling 101. The resulting police activity leads to safer streets for all of us.”

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online.