Man tried to smuggle drugs into Creamfields by storing it in his body

Joseph Ernest, of Harvey Gardens in Charlton, appeared before Chester Crown Court on Friday afternoon.

Prosecuting, Peter Hussey told the court that on August 24 the 20-year-old was in the search tent at Creamfields Festival, in Daresbury.

The court heard that Ernest admitted to having a ‘large quantity of drugs’ on his person and pulled them out from inside his anus and placed it on a table.

Ernest was found in possession of 55 grams of ketamine, with a festival street value of £2,200.

The 20-year-old was also found in possession of a small amount of cocaine, consistent with personal use.

The court heard that Ernest had planned to bring the drugs into the festival with a group of friends.

Mr Hussey noted that hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of drugs are seized by police and surrendered by festivalgoers at the event every year.

The court hears that Ernest stored the drugs in his anus (Image: Facebook)

Defending, Simran Garcha told the court that Ernest has a history of using drugs but has made ‘positive changes’ in his life.

“Ketamine has become, for reasons which will escape me, a drug of choice at parties,” said Judge Steven Everett.

“You are poisoning your body, and you are shortening your life. You only get one life.

“There is a huge problem with drugs in Creamfields. I know that two people have died from the use of drugs in the last eight years.

“It was a pretty cynical thing to do, to bring drugs in.”

Ernest was sentenced to nine months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and must complete up to 20 rehabilitation activity days.

“I don’t think you really understood the seriousness of your position when you came on via CVP from your work site [for your last hearing].

“But I believe in the last month or two there has been that realisation and that you can make something of yourself, and I hope you do.”

The 20-year-old thanked the Judge as he left the dock.