A HEROIN and crack cocaine trafficker caught after a police crackdown on drug dealing in the Pill area of Newport has received a lengthy jail sentence.

Tyler Whittington was given an eight-year prison term following the success of Operation Gravitas.

The Gwent Police investigation was set up to focus on street dealing with officers tasked with targeting pushers who were profiting from other people’s misery.

Whittington, 22, of Nash Road, Newport, was convicted after a trial of acquiring, using or possessing criminal property as well as possessing heroin and crack cocaine with intent to supply.

He was jailed at Cardiff Crown Court by Recorder Gregory Treverton-Jones QC.

A Proceeds of Crime Act hearing is due to take place next month.

Speaking outside the court after the sentence, DC Reed said: “Operation Gravitas is a team made up of detectives and constables, with the sole purpose of targeting the people that cause the most harm to the communities of Gwent.

“This was yet another successful result for the team and underlines our commitment to targeting every person, despite their perceived status, when their behaviour goes against the majority of law-abiding citizens.”

DC Reed added: “Our officers will relentlessly pursue offenders, using a range of skills, to ensure that the people who wish to blight our communities with harmful controlled drugs are put in their rightful place.

“Operation Gravitas staff welcome any person who may wish to provide information confidentially in order to protect the communities we all live in.”

The success of investigations like Operation Gravitas in tackling crimes like drug abuse, anti-social behaviour and prostitution has changed the perception of the Pill, Gwent Police have said.

In January 2017 the force sent out a survey to residents with regard to tackling key issues in the area.

Together with its partner organisations, officers worked on operations to restore confidence in the police.

Operation Jewels, the largest drug operation in Gwent’s history, also saw many local offenders put behind bars for significant periods.