Dealer Offered ‘Two Extra Wraps’ as Compensation
A Liverpool drug dealer who ran a supply line under the name “Ducky” was caught after repeatedly apologising to customers and offering free drugs as compensation for poor quality. Christopher Duckworth, 30, was jailed for over five years at Liverpool Crown Court after being convicted of supplying heroin, crack cocaine, and pregabalin. He also admitted failing to provide a blood sample to police and was banned from driving for five years.
‘Ducky’ Line Advertised Heroin, Crack and Pregabalin
Duckworth, a father of two, set up the ‘Ducky’ graft phone in his own name and continued operating even after police initially released him under investigation. Prosecutor Iain Criddle said the line was used to advertise Class A and C drugs for sale, and messages revealed Duckworth would respond to complaints from users about low quality or short measures by offering “two extra wraps for free” on their next order. “Clearly, the defendant had some control over the supply chain,” Criddle said.
Caught Twice and Tried to Destroy Phones
Police observed Duckworth dealing drugs from a property on Junction Lane, St Helens, last summer. When officers moved in, he was found with £260 in cash and two mobile phones – one of which was “ringing constantly” with drug requests. He later attempted to destroy evidence by smashing the devices but was caught again while still under investigation.
History of Drug Offences
Duckworth has 15 previous convictions for 22 offences, including a suspended prison sentence in 2021 for dealing heroin and cannabis. He has a long-standing history of drug misuse and involvement in supply since his youth. His lawyer, Joanne Daniels, told the court he was now trying to turn his life around from inside prison. “He wants to be a better father. Drugs have always been a feature in his life – it spiralled and escalated.”
Judge: ‘You Were in Control of the Graft Phone’
Judge Katherine Pierpoint said Duckworth’s ability to compensate customers showed he wasn’t just a low-level dealer but had control of operations. “You were in control of that graft phone,” she said. “You peddled misery to others and now must face the consequences.”
Five Years Behind Bars
Duckworth was sentenced to five years and four months in custody. Judge Pierpoint said: “Anyone who deals drugs in this city at the level you were operating will receive a custodial sentence. You only need to spend a few days in these courts to realise the devastating effect these drugs have on our communities.”
