Andrew Gibson, a Stockton drug dealer, faced court after being caught with crack cocaine, raising concerns he may have been a victim of cuckooing.
Stockton: A drug dealer named Andrew Gibson was caught with a large amount of crack cocaine. The court heard he might have been a victim of ‘cuckooing’.
Gibson was in serious financial trouble when he was arrested on May 13 last year. He was making about £50 a day selling drugs to buy essentials.
Police found nearly £2,000 worth of crack cocaine and £525 in cash on him. The judge noted the significant amount of drugs and cash he had.
His lawyer mentioned that Gibson was vulnerable and possibly taken advantage of. The court discussed the possibility of cuckooing, where someone takes over a vulnerable person’s home for drug dealing.
Gibson, 51, has health issues, including pneumonia and heart failure. He pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply drugs.
He received a two-year suspended prison sentence and must complete 10 days of rehabilitation. The judge warned him that any further offenses would lead to prison time.
