Hartlepool dad jailed for smuggling drugs into prison for his son

Russell Hanson, of Avenue Road, Hartlepool, tried to hand over cannabis in the visiting area of Holme House Prison, Teesside Crown Court heard.

Emma Atkinson, prosecuting, said the drugs were tucked into the waistband of his trousers.

She said: “During Hanson’s visit to his son, he was seen to take the cannabis into one hand and then the other. He was challenged by a prison officer and later arrested.

“Hanson was frank with the police, and admitted buying the wrap the day before for £10 with the intention of passing it to his son.”

Hanson, 36, admitted conveying a prohibited article into prison.

The court heard he has previous convictions for offences of dishonesty.

Paul Newcombe, defending, said: “Mr Hanson’s son was being bullied in prison, and being asked to get drugs. Mr Hanson realises now he has been played as a fool by those inside.

“He is realistic and knows a sentence of custody will be imposed. The time he has spent on remand so far has not been pleasant.

“He has been denied prescribed painkillers for a medical condition, although one can perhaps understand why such drugs are strictly controlled in a prison.”

Judge Howard Crowson jailed Hanson for 14 weeks.

The judge told him: “Immediate custody has to be imposed, both to deter you and others.

“Those tempted to bring drugs into a prison must realise they will themselves go to prison if they are caught. In many cases, that sentence will be longer than the one you have received.”