Saxmundham Man Jailed for Drug Dealing After Police Crackdown

Wednesday, 20 August 2025 19:00

A Saxmundham man has been sentenced to two and a half years in prison after being arrested during a national crackdown on county lines drug dealing.

Michael McDonnell, 27, of Mayflower Avenue, appeared at Ipswich Crown Court where he admitted possession with intent to supply cocaine and cannabis. He was sentenced to two-and-a-half years and ordered to pay £228 in costs. A forfeiture order was also made for drugs, a phone and £675 cash seized during the investigation.

McDonnell was arrested on 24 June as part of County Lines Intensification Week. He was stopped by officers in a car park in Church Street, Saxmundham, where four wraps of cocaine were found in his pockets.

Further phone evidence showed he had been involved in drug supply between November 2024 and June 2025.

Police have encouraged anyone who suspects drug activity in their community to report it. Information can be given online via the Suffolk Police website, by calling 101, or anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Officers say targeted enforcement remains a key part of disrupting county lines networks operating across Suffolk.