14-year-old girl on drug dealing charge

The girl was one of four separate arrests as part of Operation Vertigo.

Detective Inspector Tim Nunn, Hastings District Crime Manager, renewed his appeal for evidence from residents after these latest successes in Operation Vertigo, which was started in July. He said: "In the last two weeks four people have been arrested and charged with supplying drugs. Most disturbingly, one of them was a 14-year-old girl which illustrates the depth of the drugs problem we are facing."

The object of the operation is to disrupt street drug dealing in places like Linton Gardens, Briscoe's Walk, Waterworks Road and Alexandra Park.

DI Nunn added: "I would continue to urge people to speak to Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) who are patrolling these areas. The information from various members of the public has continued to assist us.

"Our progress so far is excellent news for the town, but drug dealing is an ongoing problem and we need the public's help if we are going to succeed in the long term. We need more people to call us with information. If necessary you can do this confidentially, for free, via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

Norman Nelson, 25, of no fixed abode, was arrested on September 24. He was charged with 15 offences relating to the supply of class A drugs in Hastings over the summer period. He has been remanded in custody for plea and directions at Lewes Crown Court on January 7.

Courtney Scott, 33, of Battersea, London, was arrested on September 27. He was charged with nine offences relating to the supply of class A drugs in Hastings over the summer period. He was due to appear at Hastings Magistrates Court yesterday.

The 14-year-old girl was arrested on September 29. She has been charged with one offence of supply and bailed to appear at Hastings Youth Court today.

Anthony Griffiths, 32, of Brockley, London, was arrested on September 30. He was charged with five offences relating to the supply of class A drugs in Hastings over the summer period. Eastbourne magistrates remanded him in custody to Wednesday.