An uncle and his teenager nephew were found to be running a “significant” cannabis dealing operation together in Swansea, as revealed in court. The operation came to light when the nephew was seen getting out of a taxi in the Townhill area carrying a JD Sports bag containing cannabis deals. The nephew, 18-year-old Matthew Ahearne, and his uncle Daniel Lloyd started using cannabis at an early age and were heavy users of the drug.
The court heard that police officers witnessed Ahearne fleeing into nearby gardens upon seeing them, discarding the bag containing cannabis in the process. Upon apprehension, Ahearne was found with cannabis and a mobile phone. Further investigation revealed incriminating messages on Ahearne’s phone, mostly attributed to Lloyd, leading authorities to their residence in August 2023 where cannabis and cash were found.
Ahearne, of Elwy Crescent, Townhill, pleaded guilty to charges including possession of cannabis with intent to supply and possession of criminal property. Lloyd, now of no fixed abode, also pleaded guilty to similar charges. Ahearne was sentenced to detention in a young offenders institution, while Lloyd received a suspended prison sentence and a fine.
Defence lawyers highlighted the defendants’ early exposure to cannabis, addiction, and subsequent involvement in dealing to meet financial needs. The court acknowledged Lloyd’s leading role in the operation and the lesser participation of his nephew. Recorder Aidan Eardley KC commended Ahearne’s guilty pleas, resulting in a suspended sentence. The court mandated community service, rehabilitation courses, and drug rehabilitation requirements for both defendants.