County lines gang member jailed

Jordan Hill carried out violent acts, controlled others and managed deliveries, police said

A leading member of a County Lines gang has been jailed for his part in trafficking drugs valued at nearly £250,000.

Jordan Hill, 33, was a "line manager" within the criminal network and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply heroin and crack cocaine.

Hill carried out violent acts, controlled others and managed deliveries within the operation, police said.

At Birmingham Crown Court on Friday, he was sentenced to 12 years and six months in prison, having also admitted assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He was found not guilty of wounding with intent.

At least 2.5kg of crack cocaine and heroin was trafficked into Stratford-upon-Avon and Leamington Spa between January 2019 and July 2020.

Seven vulnerable people were safeguarded during the case, including a 17-year-old girl and a one-year-old baby.

Eight other members of the gang had previously been jailed for a combined total of 56 years.

Those in charge of the operation made up to £1,500 a day and controlled others through violence, threats and reputation, police said.