Reading Crown Court: Newbury drug dealer admits guilt – but on his terms

A DRUG dealer's sentencing has been delayed after he pleaded guilty – but only with certain qualifications.

In the dock at Reading Crown Court on Friday, August 12, was Sebastian Jordan.

The 19-year-old, of Old College Road, Newbury, is charged with possessing the Class A-controlled drug cocaine and the Class B-controlled drugs cannabis and ketamine with intent to supply them in Newbury on December 28, 2020.

His barrister, Timothy Akers, told the court that his client admitted all three offences, but did so on a "basis of plea".

A defendant who pleads guilty to an offence can do so on a basis, meaning that it is accepted that a crime has occurred but in circumstances different to those alleged by the prosecution.

Mr Akers said: "I appreciate my learned friend will need time to consider the basis of plea."

Andrew Judge, prosecuting, said the Crown would need at least 14 days to do so.

The judge, Mr Recorder Weston, told Mr Jordan, who was wearing a grey suit and blue tie: "The basis was put very recently and is now going to be considered by the Crown.

"If the basis is agreed, the court will be able to proceed to sentence at the next hearing.

"If not, the Crown may have to list the matter for a Newton hearing, in which it will be decided what your role was in this matter."

The case was adjourned and Mr Jordan was meanwhile released on unconditional bail.