A County Lines drug dealer who assaulted three police officers during a dramatic arrest at Preston Park railway station has been sentenced to 57 months in prison.

Kelvin Thompson, 27, of Cambridge Road, Bournemouth, pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, assault causing actual bodily harm, and two counts of assault with intent to resist arrest.

He was sentenced on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at Hove Crown Court.

Incident at Preston Park Railway Station

The court heard that on September 3, 2024, plainclothes officers from the British Transport Police’s County Lines Taskforce spotted Thompson acting suspiciously at Preston Park railway station.

• Thompson appeared evasive when questioned by officers and displayed suspicious behaviour.
• Based on his actions, officers conducted a stop and search, during which they found three mobile phones in his possession. Thompson claimed one of the phones belonged to a friend.
• Officers also felt a concealed package under his clothing, believed to contain drugs.

When questioned further, Thompson attempted to escape while handcuffed, freeing one of his hands.

Violent Struggle with Police

During the ensuing struggle:

• Thompson kicked one officer in the groin.
• He caused another officer to hit their back against a wall.
• He bit a third officer, refusing to let go until officers subdued him.

Thompson was eventually restrained and taken into custody, where a full search revealed two packages containing crack cocaine and heroin worth approximately £1,500.

Police Condemn Attacks on Officers

DC Chris May, the investigating officer, condemned Thompson’s actions:

“Thompson’s behaviour in this case was totally unacceptable. We won’t tolerate attacks on our officers or other emergency workers, and we will seek to prosecute those who choose to attack people for simply doing their job.”

The British Transport Police’s County Lines Taskforce, specially trained to identify drug trafficking activity on the rail network, was credited for their swift response.

“If you are using the rail network to transport drugs, we will find you,” DC May warned.

Sentence and Message to Criminals

Thompson’s 57-month sentence sends a strong message to those involved in drug trafficking and violence against police. The County Lines Taskforce continues to monitor and disrupt criminal activities on the rail network, ensuring public safety and justice.

More updates to follow on the ongoing efforts to combat County Lines operations.