Man sentenced for drug offence and assault – Upper Lambourn

Following a Thames Valley Police investigation, a man has been sentenced for a drug offence and an assault in Upper Lambourn.

James Cunningham, aged 44, of Calf Close Lane, Jarrow, Tyneside, pleaded guilty to one count each of being concerned in drug supply, assault and sending malicious communications.

He was sentenced to a year and six months in prison at Reading Crown Court on Friday (11/11).

He was also ordered to forfeit £1,240 in cash, drug paraphernalia and a mobile phone.

The sentence relates to incidents in 2017 where Cunningham dealt drugs to several individuals.

Cunningham kicked one victim in the face, while he threatened another with having their legs broken after not paying him on time.

Investigating officer Detective Constable James Postans, from the Digital Investigations and Intelligence team, said: "These offences were committed in December 2017 but the judicial process was hampered first by Covid and then by Cunningham failing to appear at court and fleeing to Holland.

“A huge amount of time and resources involving many police departments and personnel were put into trying to locate Cunningham and place him before the courts.

“He was eventually arrested by colleagues at Essex Police whilst re-entering Harwich International Port earlier this summer.

“I wish to pay credit to the victims who throughout the last five years have remained resolute in their wish to see justice served and have remained supportive of the police investigation throughout.

“This case demonstrates that if you commit crime in Thames Valley, we will pursue you and place you before the courts, regardless of where you may run to.”

JS

James Cunningham