Two drug dealers from Ashford who attempted to escape through a window to avoid capture by Kent Police have been sentenced to jail following a comprehensive investigation.

Dylan Skenderi, 19, of Barnett Field, and Reece Parker, 20, of Crownfield Road, were both handed custodial sentences after admitting to being involved in the supply of class A drugs, including crack cocaine and heroin.

The investigation, conducted by Kent Police, led to the dismantling of a drug supply network in Ashford. Detectives identified telephone numbers linked to bulk messaging systems used to distribute information to known drug users in the town. Between October and December 2023, messages from these numbers were traced back to Skenderi, connecting him to the supply of drugs.

Further mobile phone evidence revealed Parker’s involvement in the drug supply line between November and December 2023.

On 20 December 2023, officers arrived at Skenderi’s home, where they found Parker attempting to jump out of a window, while Skenderi was discovered in the garden, having already leapt from the property. Both were arrested on the scene. Police recovered drugs, cannabis, paraphernalia, and several mobile phones. A search of Parker’s home also uncovered a large wrap of cocaine and a significant amount of cash.

While awaiting court, Skenderi was arrested again on 24 July 2024 in Ashford after being suspected of continuing drug activity. During the arrest, Skenderi unsuccessfully attempted to discard a mobile phone, believed to be a burner phone used for drug transactions. It was later seized as evidence.

Skenderi was sentenced to three years and six months in prison at Canterbury Crown Court on 13 September 2024 after pleading guilty to drug supply offences. Parker, who also pleaded guilty, was sentenced to two years and nine months.

Detective Constable Holly Bayliss stated: “The misery caused by substance abuse extends beyond drug users, it ripples out through communities, impacting on residents and businesses. We work hard to stamp out drug supply lines and bring the criminals behind them to justice.”

She added: “Skenderi showed complete contempt by continuing to deal drugs even while on bail. The efforts of Skenderi and Parker to target drug users have been brought to a halt, and I am pleased that they are now both behind bars.”