An alert security guard at the Creamfields electronic dance music festival in Daresbury caught a festivalgoer in the act of using nitrous oxide in a tent. The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday, August 26, 2022, at the gold campsite.
When the security officers heard the sound of a nitrous oxide canister being degassed, they immediately investigated. They found Luke Moran with another man and two women inside the tent, surrounded by numerous nitrous oxide canisters. A search of the tent revealed three small bags of white powder and a large clear bag containing several smaller bags with white powder inside, all belonging to Moran.
Additionally, bags containing white and brown substances were discovered in a pair of trainers next to Moran’s tent. When Moran attempted to flee, the security team quickly apprehended him. He and the other individuals in the tent were taken to an eviction hut on the site, where Cheshire Police officers conducted a search.
During the search, officers found packs of snap bags containing white powder concealed in Moran’s tracksuit waistband and boxer shorts. They also recovered £645 in cash from his wallet and rucksack. As a result, Moran was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply controlled drugs and later charged.
Moran, of Connington Avenue in Manchester, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cocaine and ketamine, as well as attempted possession with intent to supply class B drugs. He was sentenced to 30 months in jail by Chester Crown Court. DC Neil Fleming emphasized the importance of respecting the laws and restrictions at festivals like Creamfields, noting that there are amnesty bins and surrender points for illegal substances.
He warned that individuals who choose to bring illegal drugs into Cheshire will face swift and robust action under the full extent of the law. The incident serves as a reminder of the consequences of drug-related activities at festivals and the importance of prioritizing safety and compliance with laws and regulations.