'Hard-Working' Dad-of-Two Turned to Dealing Cocaine to Feed His Own Habit

A father-of-two has been jailed after turning to drug dealing to support his cocaine addiction, despite earning a decent living.

Teesside Crown Court heard that 37-year-old Ross Bradbury, who was earning approximately £3,000 per month, began selling cocaine to fund his growing habit. His side operation reportedly brought in around £2,000 each month.

Bradbury was arrested when police searched his home in Eaglescliffe and discovered a tub containing cocaine along with a phone loaded with drug-related contacts and messages. He later admitted to supplying cocaine between June 2023 and August 2024, and to possessing criminal property totalling £27,173.12.

Prosecutors told the court that during a visit to his home last August, Bradbury initially downplayed the situation, telling officers the drugs were only for friends. He even directed them to search the kitchen cupboards. However, police recovered 40.8 grams of cocaine — with an estimated street value between £2,050 and £4,100 — along with evidence on his phone confirming regular supply to others.

A financial investigation revealed that, in addition to his salary, Bradbury had frequent cash deposits into his account consistent with drug dealing profits.

His defence told the court that Bradbury, of Nairn Close, Darlington, was battling a depressive disorder during this period. While he maintained a confident front with friends and family, he was privately struggling. What started as casual cocaine use quickly escalated into addiction, and eventually into dealing to afford the habit.

The court heard Bradbury had no previous convictions and had since stopped using drugs. His barrister described him as a hard-working man who now just wants to serve his sentence and rebuild his life after release, acknowledging the toll this situation will have on his children and wider family.

Judge Deborah Sherwin noted that while Bradbury profited from drug sales, much of the money was likely spent feeding his addiction. She also acknowledged multiple character references that suggested his actions were out of character.