Former Ospreys academy rugby player, Tim Perkins, has been sentenced to 31 months in prison after being caught dealing heroin and crack cocaine on the streets of Swansea. The 22-year-old was apprehended by undercover police officers in a joint operation by South Wales Police and Merseyside Police. Perkins was found in possession of two dozen ready-to-sell drug deals, almost £800 in cash, and a phone implicating him in drug distribution in Swansea and Gower.
During his arrest, police had to forcefully enter Perkins’ Mercedes car and use incapacitant gas to subdue him. The court heard that Perkins resisted arrest, leading officers to use batons to gain access to the vehicle. Inside, they discovered 18 wraps of heroin and six wraps of crack cocaine valued at up to £1,680. Perkins, who had no prior convictions, pleaded guilty to possession of drugs with intent to supply and possession of criminal proceeds.
Perkins’ barrister described him as a young man who regretted his actions and acknowledged the consequences of his choices. The court was informed that Perkins had turned to drug dealing to support his own cannabis habit after working in life insurance and living off inheritance. The defence highlighted Perkins’ positive attributes, including his involvement in music and rugby through the Ospreys academy.
Judge Catherine Richards emphasized the destructive impact of Class A drugs on individuals and communities. Despite acknowledging Perkins’ positive qualities, she sentenced him to 31 months in prison, with the possibility of early release on licence after serving half the term. Perkins expressed remorse in a letter to the court, reflecting on his actions and expressing a desire to contribute positively to society in the future.