THREE Redditch drug dealers have been sentenced after supplying edible cannabis sweets with a street value of around £7,000.

An arrest was made by investigating West Mercia Police officers earlier this year, who found one suspect selling edible cannabis "advertised" as sweets.

A search resulted in the seizure of drugs and the edibles which led to simultaneous warrants by a team of 15 officers in June on three addresses.

Police seized a large amount of cannabis and edibles which were being manufactured in the homes.

Herbal cannabis and cannabis edibles that had been homemade were found in a kitchen.

A further investigation on mobile devices resulted in further evidence of supply by all involved.

On Wednesday, November 29 at Worcester Crown Court, John Thomas, aged 36, of Winforton Close, Redditch, was convicted of two counts of possession of a cannabis with the intent to supply.

He was handed a 16-month sentence, suspended for 18 months, 150 hours of unpaid work and £350 costs.

Caswell Barnett, aged 35 of Lightoak Close, Redditch, was convicted of possession of a cannabis with the intent to supply.

He was given an eight-month sentence, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to do 75 hours of unpaid work and pay £350 costs.

Natalija Byrd, aged 45, of Hayford Close, Redditch was convicted of being concerned in the supply of cannabis.

Byrd was given a 12-month community order and ordered to do 60 hours of unpaid work.

Lead investigating officer PC Greg Melville of Redditch Police said: “This investigation helps show we will actively seek out and bring to justice drug dealers operating in the town and move to prevent the supply of harmful drugs in our communities.

“These edibles were also being made at home which present environmental hazards such as fumes and potential fire risks.

“I am glad to see that the courts have imposed sentences that not only carry a potential prison term, but that will also help rehabilitate those involved.”