Posted on the 2nd October 2026 in PHTM News

LIVERPOOL CABBIE JAILED FOR 38 MONTHS AFTER BEING CAUGHT COURIERING PINK KETAMINE

A cabbie was jailed for 38 months on October 1 after being caught couriering a kilogram of drugs to pay off gambling debts.

Peter McFadden, a 55-year-old boxing coach and taxi driver from Norris Green, came to the attention of police on June 4 when he was pulled over for speeding along Croxteth Hall Lane shortly before 2.30pm. Officers noticed a strong smell of cannabis and saw him trying to hide an object under his seat.

Prosecuting, Iain Criddle explained that McFadden was "reluctant to get out of the car and appeared to be nervous" before confessing he had a "kilogram of pink ketamine" in his possession.

Police recovered two packages weighing a combined 995g of the drug, also known as tusi, which is a mixture of ecstasy and ketamine. A subsequent search of McFadden's home uncovered £11,250 in cash hidden inside a wardrobe.

McFadden claimed he fell into substantial debt due to his own cocaine addiction and gambling. While visiting a bookmakers, he was propositioned by a mystery man and agreed to work as a courier to pay off his debts, receiving a fee of £100 for his services.

Defending, John Weate told Liverpool Crown Court that his client had previously volunteered as a boxing coach and had never served a custodial sentence. "He takes full responsibility for his actions. He has asked me to apologise that he finds himself in this position," Weate said.

Sentencing McFadden after he pleaded guilty to possession of MDMA with intent to supply and possession of criminal property, Recorder Nicola Daley stated: "Those who traffic substances profit from the addiction, misery and degradation of users. The effects extend beyond those immediate users and contribute towards other crimes, violence, family breakdown, ill health and pressure on public services."

McFadden wiped his eyes with a tissue during the hearing and, as he was led down to the cells, told his supporters in the public gallery: "see yous all later," before reaching over to hold a woman's hand and adding: "love you."


Read another story