Swindon drug dealer jailed after being caught with machete

A Swindon drug dealer has been jailed for more than two years.

Leonard Howard, 20, of Harding Street, was arrested on June 10, just two weeks after he had been released from prison.

He was sighted by officers wearing a black balaclava and riding an illegal e-bike in the Upham Road area. He attempted to evade officers, but was detained and found to be in possession of a large machete concealed in his trousers, as well as a mobile phone and a large amount of cash.

A search of an address linked to Howard saw officers locate a significant amount of heroin, further drugs paraphernalia associated with the supply of drugs and cash.

Further investigative work was carried out collaboratively between the Serious Youth Gang Violence Team and Swindon Central South Neighbourhood Policing Team, and extensive evidence was found on Howard’s mobile phone which suggested he was involved in the supply of class A drugs in Swindon.

He pleaded guilty to the offences of being concerned in the supply of heroin between May and June 2024, and being in possession of a bladed article in a public place.

On Tuesday September 3, he was sentenced to two years and six months imprisonment at Swindon Crown Court. 

PC Aidan Hillier, of the Serious Youth Gang Violence Team, said: “Just two weeks after being released from prison, Howard thought it was acceptable to be in possession of a machete in public and had been involved in the supply of class A drugs to vulnerable people in Swindon.

“I therefore welcome the custodial sentence he has been given.

“We understand the public are concerned when they see people riding around on illegal electric bikes wearing balaclavas - it causes fear of harm amongst residents and that is why creating safer public spaces is a force priority. We will proactively target those causing harm within our communities.”