North Tyneside pub landlord who attempted to flee to Bahrain after role in cocaine conspiracy jailed
by Daniel Hall · ChronicleLiveA North Tyneside pub landlord who attempted to escape to the Middle East after admitting his role in a cocaine conspiracy has been jailed.
David Falcus used the handle 'Novaghost' on an encrypted messaging app to facilitate the supply of the Class A substance into the North East. A Northumbria Police investigation found the 52-year-old was involved in the supply of more than two kilograms of cocaine between March and June 2020.
Falcus, of Bede Close, Holystone, was arrested in February 2021, and searches of his home address and business premises were conducted. More than £2,000 in cash was recovered from Falcus' home, with a further £4,650 found at his place of work along with six cocaine packages worth more than £4,000.
He initially denied any wrongdoing but was subsequently charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine and released on conditional bail after his first court appearance. Falcus later attempted to flee the country with a flight booked to Bahrain, but was stopped by officers and arrested at Heathrow Airport on July 24 this year.
Within a week, he pleaded guilty to the drugs charge at Newcastle Crown Court. He appeared at the same court for sentencing on Friday (November 1), where he was sentenced to an eight years behind bars.
Det Ch Insp Marc Michael, of Northumbria Police, said after sentencing: "Cocaine is an incredibly addictive and destructive substance which has absolutely no place in any of our communities. Organised crime of this nature brings with it violence, exploitation and harm which will not be tolerated.
"Falcus knew the damaging consequences of his actions, yet believed he was above the law and sought to profit from the trade of the drug. He attempted to mask his offending through the use of encrypted messaging, but the dedication and teamwork of our officers ultimately left him with no choice but to admit his guilt."
Det Ch Insp Michael hailed the sentencing as another positive result in Northumbria Police's ongoing clampdown on organised crime through Operation Sentinel. And he urged the public to report any concerns over criminality in their areas - "no matter how insignificant it may seem". Anyone looking to report a crime is able to do so through the 'Report' page of the Northumbria Police website, by calling 101, or reporting to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.
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