A DRUG dealer has been jailed over a class A county lines gang.

Lucas Devereux was locked up for four years and 10 months today, Friday, over the operation – which peddled illicit substances on the streets of Widnes.

The 20-year-old, from Liverpool, was ensnared by separate investigations into a string of burglaries and drug dealing by Merseyside Police’s Project Medusa.

He was arrested in July last year during a raid on his home in the Norris Green area.

Devereux admitted being concerned in the supply of class A drugs and four counts of burglary at Liverpool Crown Court in connection with break-ins and thefts of motor vehicles in Kirkby, Norris Green and Southport committed between December 2020 and February 2021.

Following the sentencing, inspector Gary Stratton said: “The offenders who operate these county lines do so to the detriment of everyone around them.

“They exploit young and vulnerable people to store, transport and deal drugs and blight the communities in which they operate.

“Project Medusa is committed to cutting these lines and putting the organised criminals who operate them before the courts, as we have done today.

“We are also working to remove those who have been exploited by these groups, to give them a choice and a chance to make a different life for themselves.

“I'd urge everyone to familiarise themselves with the signs of someone getting involved in this type of criminality.

“If you spot the signs, you may be able to help – visit eyes-open.co.uk for more information.

“The force understands that being a victim of burglary can have a massive impact on a person's life.

“That's why we work to fully investigate these offences, so those responsible can be brought to justice – as we have done here.”