Man Jailed Over Drug Bust in Reading
Archie Hales, 19, locked up for over two years after Thames Valley Police drug swoop.
Caught with Crack, Heroin and Cash
On 25 September 2025, Hales was spotted cruising London Road, Reading on an e-bike. When he popped into a shop, officers swooped and stopped him for a drugs search.
They found a black backpack stuffed with £820 in cash and a stash of cannabis. A thorough search uncovered 82 wraps of crack cocaine and heroin, plus two iPhones linked to his dodgy dealings.
Two Years and Four Months Behind Bars
Hales, who has no fixed address, pleaded guilty at Reading Crown Court on 26 September 2026 to possession with intent to supply heroin and cocaine, plus possession of criminal property.
He returned to court on 29 January 2026 and was handed a prison sentence totaling two years and four months.
A confiscation order was also issued, ensuring the destruction of drugs, phones, the e-bike, and all cash seized.
Police Vow to Crack Down on Drug Dealers
“Our team will continue to proactively target and prosecute offenders who seek to deal drugs in our communities,” said PC Ross Hutcheson of the Reading Proactive Team. “Hales will now serve a prison sentence and we hope he reflects on his actions.”
The police urge anyone with information on drug supply in Reading to speak up. Tips can be shared with Thames Valley Police via their website, by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
