Two men were sentenced in connection with drug offenses in Oxford, following an incident that occurred on May 1 last year. Aaron Armstrong, 41, and Finley Haynes, 20, faced serious charges, including possession with intent to supply illegal substances.
Key Facts of the Case
- Defendants: Aaron Armstrong and Finley Haynes
- Court: Oxford Crown Court
- Date of Sentencing: May 22
- Location: Oxford, UK
- Charges:
- Armstrong: Possession with intent to supply cocaine, possession of a bladed article (machete)
- Haynes: Possession with intent to supply cocaine, heroin, cannabis, possession of an offensive weapon (baton)
- Value of Drugs Seized: £11,940 from Armstrong’s vehicle; over £2,000 from Haynes
Details of the Arrests
Armstrong was stopped by police due to suspicions about a connection to fleeing individuals, believed to include his son. During the stop, authorities discovered cocaine worth nearly £12,000 and a machete in his car. Meanwhile, Haynes was apprehended after fleeing officers in Cowley while carrying a rucksack containing significant quantities of drugs.
Legal Proceedings and Sentences
In court, both men pleaded guilty. While Armstrong had no significant prior offenses, Haynes had two previous convictions. The prosecution noted that Haynes played a lesser role in this drug operation, while Armstrong’s involvement was deemed considerable.
The judge, Mr. Recorder Alan Gardner KC, expressed disappointment at the situation. He emphasized the serious nature of Armstrong’s crimes and noted the surprising contrast to his previously good character. Haynes, on the other hand, received a more lenient sentence, reflecting his age and circumstances.
Sentencing Outcomes
- Finley Haynes:
- 23-month prison sentence, suspended for two years
- 150 hours of unpaid work within 12 months
- 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days
- Four months of trail monitoring
- Aaron Armstrong:
- Jailed for three years and six months
Additionally, the court ordered the forfeiture and destruction of all drugs, paraphernalia, and weapons seized during the investigation. Both men were served due sentencing to address their roles in the local drug problem.
