Cleveland Police officers used a drone to catch a man dealing drugs to two individuals outside a primary school in Middlesbrough. The suspect, identified as 58-year-old Robert Parsons, was observed taking out a purple tub from his pocket and handing over suspected drugs to the man and woman in broad daylight.
According to bodycam footage shared by the police, Parsons was arrested at an address after a police drone tailed him from the scene of the crime. During a search of the residence, officers located two purple tubs containing heroin and another tub hidden in an oven mitt containing crack cocaine.
Parsons was sentenced to an 18-month prison sentence suspended for two years at Teesside Crown Court after being charged with two counts of possession with intent to supply class A drugs. A second man, aged 55, was also arrested at the address, in possession of a wrap of suspected crack cocaine.
Middlesbrough Proactive Team Sergeant John Sproson praised the use of the police drone in apprehending Parsons, stating that it is an invaluable tool in tackling crime in Middlesbrough. He added that Parsons' actions showed a blatant disregard for the safety of young children at the primary school.
The police have warned local criminals that they are being watched and will be tackled. The use of the drone in this case highlights the effectiveness of modern technology in law enforcement and the importance of community policing.
