Man jailed for running drugs lines in Cheltenham

A man has been jailed for his involvement in running drugs lines which supplied cocaine to vulnerable drug users living in Cheltenham.

George Mahon, aged 25 and formerly of Hygrove Lane in Minsterworth, was sentenced to four years in prison after appearing at Gloucester Crown Court.

Officers became aware of Mahon's dealing while investigating reports that an individual was using several mobile phone numbers to send bulk text messages offering drugs for sale in Cheltenham. This method is known as running a drugs line.

Enquiries found that Mahon had used three separate mobile phone numbers consecutively between October 2024 and February 2025. During this time 11,190 bulk text messages had been sent which were indicative of drug supply.

The language used in the bulk messages was the same across all three mobile numbers and upon arrest Mahon was in possession of a burner phone believed to be for a new number being used to offer drugs for sale.

The phone being used was sending lots of text messages and once read these showed that Mahon was regularly offering cocaine for sale.

Searches of Mahon's home address and vehicles uncovered £16,990 in cash. It is believed this money was gained by drug dealing as Mahon was unemployed and did not receive benefits.

Mahon was arrested by officers on 21 February this year (2025) and was later charged with being concerned in the supply of cocaine and acquire/use/possess criminal property. He answered no comment during police interview.

He pleaded guilty to all charges ahead of sentencing on Monday 24 March.

A police spokesperson said: "It is clear by the number of bulk text messages sent that Mahon was intent on selling drugs to as many people as possible.

"He gained thousands of pounds from this and used the money to buy designer clothes for himself and others.

"This case is yet another example of how tirelessly we are working to disrupt those who think they can deal drugs in Gloucestershire."

Anyone who has concerns or intelligence about drug dealing can report this to police via the following link https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/soh/seen-or-heard/.

Alternatively you can report information anonymously through the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting their website: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously 

George Mahon

 

 

Bodyworn footage of officers finding money hidden underneath seat in Mahon's vehicle.mp4

 

Bundles of cash found at Mahon's address

 

 

A CCTV image of Mahon using one of the drugs phones linked to him

 

 

A money counter found at Mahon's address