Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Thursday 10th April 2025 at 19:35hrs
A routine room inspection by a vigilant hotel housekeeper in Cardiff has led to the downfall of two drug dealers.
Keiran McCoy, 20, and Zack Tawton, 21, both from Llanishen, were sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court today, Thursday, April 10, after their illicit operation was uncovered at the Ibis Cardiff Gate hotel.
The pair had checked into the hotel under false pretences on September 5, 2024, booking a five-day stay.
However, their criminal enterprise unravelled just two days later when they left their room unattended.
A quick-thinking housekeeper entered to clean and was confronted with clear evidence of drug dealing.
Cocaine was openly visible on the dresser, and several golf-ball-sized packages, along with over 100 small grip seal bags containing the Class A drug, were discovered on the floor.
Hotel staff acted swiftly, managing to capture video footage of McCoy and Tawton’s activities within the room.
Police were immediately alerted to the situation.
Unaware that their operation had been exposed, McCoy and Tawton returned to their room. However, the sight of fresh towels seemingly alerted them to the housekeeper’s visit, prompting them to hastily pack their belongings and attempt to check out.
Police officers arrived at the hotel just as Tawton was at reception. He was apprehended at the scene. McCoy managed to flee but was located and arrested two days later.
Despite both men initially denying any involvement with the drugs, the evidence against them was overwhelming.
Hotel CCTV footage clearly showed them using the room. Forensic analysis revealed traces of cocaine on a mug found in the room. Furthermore, a photograph discovered on one of their mobile phones depicted one of the men inside the hotel room in the presence of the drugs.
A subsequent search of Tawton’s home on Coed Cochwyn Avenue in Llanishen yielded further incriminating evidence, including a machete and over £8,000 in cash concealed beneath a mattress.
In court, Zack Tawton pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine, acquiring criminal property (namely money), and multiple driving offences.
Keiran McCoy, of Bardsey Crescent, Llanishen, admitted to being concerned in the supply of cocaine and multiple driving offences, including failing to stop for police during arrest enquiries.
Today, their criminal activities were met with justice. Tawton was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment, while McCoy received a two-and-a-half-year jail term.
Detective Inspector Tim Jones commented on the case, stating:
“The pair set-up at the hotel thinking they would go unnoticed. They were dealing significant amounts of drugs and profiting from the misery of others, but I would like to assure the public that we will use the Proceeds of Crime Act to ensure they don’t benefit from their criminality.”
He added, “Both men are now in jail where they will have plenty of time to reflect on the decisions which got them there.
I’d like to give credit to those working on the hotel for their quick thinking, which played a crucial role in bringing these individuals to justice.”
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