A teenage illegal substance distributor started selling cocaine on local roads to cover costs for his own habit after it spiralled beyond control.

Jayden Berry, 18 years old, was taken into custody during a police operation at the property where he lived with his family on Chaffinch Way in the Duffryn area of Newport during December of the prior year.

Officers uncovered 12 separate quantities of cocaine inside the defendant’s own bedroom, prosecutor Andrew Davies explained during the hearing at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court.

Police also seized various empty wrapping bags.

Berry entered a plea of guilty to possessing cocaine with the purpose of supplying it.

He possessed no previous convictions.

The defendant’s lawyer, Darren Bishop, said there were no lengthy message exchanges or comparable evidence pointing to wider distribution operations. Mr Berry became dependent on cannabis before advancing to cocaine consumption while keeping company with unsuitable individuals. Every penny earned was directed toward supporting his own substance dependency. There was no lavish way of living – the prosecution has not pursued a proceeds of crime application.

Mr Bishop added that he held no authority over anyone else within any supply chain. He occupied the most junior position in distribution. The defendant has shown real regret and has stopped using cocaine, remaining abstinent for several months.

The court heard that Berry endured a difficult childhood and education and has faced serious mental health difficulties.

It was revealed that possible job prospects were available through his grandfather’s business.

Mr Bishop asked the court to take into account his client’s young age, previously spotless record, and admission of guilt when presenting mitigating factors.

The presiding judge, Recorder Paul Lewis KC, told the defendant that those who trade in class A substances should expect immediate custody irrespective of their age, and he is no different.

Berry received a sentence of 27 months in a young offender establishment, with approximately 40 percent to be served prior to conditional release.

He was required to pay a statutory victim surcharge of £228.