Pioneering Conviction in Essex: Nitrous Oxide Supplier Faces Justice

In a significant development for UK law enforcement, Essex Police’s specialist drugs officers have achieved one of the first convictions for the supply of nitrous oxide, following a pivotal amendment to the law aimed at intensifying police crackdowns on anti-social behaviours.

The landmark case began when officers, on routine patrol, stopped a vehicle in Southernhay, Basildon, on Friday, 1 December. The stop was initiated due to the vehicle’s lack of valid insurance. However, a subsequent search revealed a more concerning find: over £38,000 in cash, quantities of ketamine, and numerous nitrous oxide canisters.

A subsequent arrest led to the execution of warrants at addresses in Brentwood and Vange, uncovering further quantities of Class A and B drugs.

Thomas Salton, 30, from William Hunter Way, Brentwood, faced multiple charges, including possession with intent to supply controlled drugs across Class A, B, and C, as well as possessing criminal property. In a hearing at Basildon Crown Court on Monday, 8 January, Salton admitted to possession with intent to supply Class B and C drugs. He denied the Class A supply charge, opting to admit to a simpler possession charge, and also admitted to possessing criminal property.

The case, particularly noted for Salton’s conviction on counts of possessing nitrous oxide – commonly known as laughing gas – with intent to supply, marks a significant moment. This is believed to be one of the first convictions since the enactment of new legislation in November 2023 that classified nitrous oxide as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

Under this new legislation, individuals found in possession of nitrous oxide could face up to two years in prison, while those convicted of supply may face up to 14 years.

“We have welcomed the introduction of this new law, as it will give us as officers more options when dealing with the anti-social behaviour so often associated with the use and supply of nitrous oxide as a recreational substance. This means a proportionate approach to tackling those found in possession of nitrous oxide cannisters, including explaining the change in law and encouraging people not to use or buy the substance. But where we are dealing with a larger number of cannisters, it is right we take robust and swift action and put this new legislation to use. The use of nitrous oxide in public spaces is a nuisance to communities and has been shown to pose a considerable health risk.” – Superintendent Philip Stinger, Head of Specialist Operations.

Salton is scheduled for sentencing at Basildon Crown Court on Monday, 19 February.

Source: Essex Police