Enfield man jailed for five years over drug dealing

Shyeem Chisholm, 26, has been jailed for five years and seven months after admitting to being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine, heroin, and cannabis. He was sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court on August 11.

Exploitation of vulnerable victim

The case originated in May when a victim contacted Essex Police to report drug dealing at his Loughton flat. The victim, a recovering drug user, had been left with drugs and instructed to sell them, according to This Is Local London. He instead contacted the authorities, who identified him as a victim of cuckooing. Cuckooing is a form of exploitation where criminals take over the homes of vulnerable individuals to use for drug-related activities.

Detective Inspector Mark Jones of Operation Raptor stated that cuckooing is a harmful exploitation method. He commended the victim for his courage in contacting the police. Safeguarding measures were put in place for the victim, and an investigation was launched to find the offender.

Arrest and seizure

Officers identified Chisholm as a suspect within days and arrested him in Enfield on May 11. During the arrest, police seized a three-figure sum of cash, a phone used for drug dealing, and lists detailing names and numbers associated with the operation.

The court was informed that Chisholm had returned to drug dealing to repay a debt incurred after his release from prison.