Drug Dealing at Homeless Hostel Leads to Jail Time for Resident

A man named Jordan Rankmore got caught selling drugs near the homeless hostel where he lived. The drugs were heroin and cocaine, both Class A. He was on parole for robbery at the time. The hostel was meant to be safe for people battling drug problems.

Rankmore’s lawyer knew her client had a past. After prison, they sent him back to the hostel. He then reconnected with old friends there. Alex Orndal was the prosecutor. He said police got a call in January from the Huggard Centre in Cardiff. Staff reported drug dealing nearby.

Police went to the place described and saw Rankmore with drug users. They arrested Rankmore and searched him. They found 50 wraps of heroin and cocaine hidden in his underwear, near his genitals. The drugs were worth about £550, and he also had £105 in cash with him.

Jordan Rankmore, 34, admitted to drug dealing and pleaded guilty in court. He had prior convictions, 26 offenses in total, including drug possession and supply since 2011. He got four years for robbery in 2021 and was on parole when he was caught.

Rankmore’s lawyer acknowledged his “colourful” history and said he knew he’d get prison time. He faced addiction and homelessness for ten years. After prison, he went back to the Huggard Centre and rejoined his old crowd. Now, he is off drugs and alcohol and joined a 12-step program for recovery.

The judge sentenced Rankmore to 40 months, with a discount for his guilty plea. He will serve half in jail, then he will be on parole in the community. The judge wished him luck as he left.