Police said they would not tolerate County Lines drugs gangs that brought the threat of violence onto Swindon’s streets.

The comments followed the jailing of dealer Jason Stiggers, who was sentenced for more than six years last week after admitting involvement in three different drugs operations between 2017 and 2019.

Stiggers was part of the Alex line, which flooded Swindon with crack cocaine and heroin in 2016 and 2017. A year later he was caught with drugs and a police style baton in east Swindon. Finally, in 2019 he sold class A drugs to an undercover police officer.

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Reacting to the 22-year-old’s sentence, PC Gareth Snoad of Wiltshire Police said: "Stiggers had a pivotal role in the supply of class A drugs from London into Swindon for many months - exploiting vulnerable people through their addiction and causing fear amongst those living in the local community.

"When arrested, he was found in possession of a police style asp - this is typical of County Lines drugs gang members, bringing the threat of violence to our streets and this will not be tolerated.

"We are committed to tackling County Lines and will continue to target those involved in the supply of class A drugs within our communities.

"I am pleased that a custodial sentence has been handed to Stiggers - this reflects the severity of his actions and the impact this could have on many vulnerable people."