UPDATE: A 72-year-old man from Wallsend has been sentenced for possessing over £100,000 worth of illegal tobacco and Viagra tablets. Alan Peacock admitted to eight offences, including trademark violations and breaching tobacco regulations, during a hearing at Newcastle Crown Court on November 21.
The urgent crackdown on illegal tobacco in the area has intensified, with Peacock’s case highlighting significant health risks associated with illicit products. Authorities executed a warrant at his residence on July 10, uncovering a staggering stash that included 4,425 packets of cigarettes, 979 pouches of tobacco, and 830 Viagra pills. The operation, led by North Tyneside Trading Standards and supported by Northumbria Police, also seized £6,245 in cash, alongside foreign currencies.
During sentencing, the judge emphasized the financial gain Peacock accrued from these illegal activities, despite his expression of remorse and cooperation with authorities. Peacock received a 14-month prison sentence for trademark offences and an additional nine months for packaging violations, which will be served concurrently but suspended for 18 months. He is also required to complete 150 hours of unpaid work over the next year and contribute £400 towards costs.
Councillor Sandra Graham, cabinet member with North Tyneside Council, praised the efforts of Trading Standards and police, stating, “This outcome reflects the hard work of our team in tackling illegal tobacco in our area. These products don’t meet the standards required by law, and removing them from circulation helps protect consumers.”
Chief Inspector David Morrison from Northumbria Police added, “Illicit tobacco might seem harmless, but its sale is often linked to serious and organized crime, causing significant harm to our communities. We urge anyone with information about illegal sales to report it.”
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities related to illegal tobacco by messaging police on social media or using the live chat on their website. Alternative reporting methods include calling 101 or contacting Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
This significant case underscores a growing commitment to combating illegal tobacco sales in the region, protecting public health, and reinforcing the community’s safety. Authorities remain vigilant, urging citizens to assist in reporting illicit activities.
