Zachary Spencer of Tiverton House, Wantage, has been charged with involvement in the supply of crack cocaine. The 20-year-old pleaded guilty on May 7, 2025, the first day of his trial.
Appearing in court dressed formally, Spencer displayed visible nervousness, with his hands shaking as the sentencing commenced. The court was informed that on January 26, 2022, police observed several young males in Blackbird Leys, including Spencer, who fled the scene.
Upon capture, Spencer was found with a small amount of cannabis. Further investigation of his phone revealed text messages indicative of crack cocaine dealing. The case proceeded to sentencing at Oxford Crown Court on June 24, presided over by Judge Ian Pringle KC.
Prosecutor Edward Gordon Saker noted that Spencer, a teenager at the time of the offense, played a ‘lesser role.’ Saker remarked, “This really is a tale of chaos through this young lad’s teenage years.” The court recognized Spencer’s challenging past.
Having been ‘in and out’ of the care system, Spencer had been placed with his father, who was recently released from prison. Defense counsel Peter de Feu highlighted Spencer’s significant life improvements since the offense, describing him as being ‘in the best place’.
Currently, Spencer resides with his partner and her parents, forming what was described as ‘the first family unit he has had in many years.’ A strong relationship with his mother was also noted.
In delivering judgment, Judge Pringle acknowledged Spencer’s minor role in the drug dealings and highlighted the deficiencies in the care system that failed Spencer by placing him with a father who had a ‘drug habit.’ This situation was said to have influenced Spencer’s actions.
Spencer received an 18-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, with no separate sentence for the cannabis offense. Judge Pringle cautioned Spencer against future offenses, emphasizing that there would be repercussions.
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