Snapchat drug dealer jailed after police chase

A 20-year-old man from Exeter has been jailed for 27 months after pleading guilty to multiple drug and driving offences.

Cameron Trench-Butler was sentenced at Exeter Crown Court on Monday, 10 March after to the involvement in the supply of Class B drugs, handling stolen goods, and dangerous driving.

During the hearing, the court was told that between October and November 2024, Trench-Butler was involved in the supply of cannabis via Snapchat.

On 7 November 2024, an Audi S3 Quattro was stolen in a burglary in Gloucestershire. Twelve days later, on 19 November, an officer patrolling Exwick spotted the same black Audi and confirmed it had been reported stolen. A forensic examination of the vehicle revealed Trench-Butler’s DNA inside.

Further evidence was found on his phone, including videos showing him inside the vehicle, listening to music about being chased by police while smoking cannabis. The prosecution stated that Trench-Butler was fully aware the car had been stolen.

The dangerous driving charge related to an incident on 12 January 2025. Two officers on patrol in Exeter saw Trench-Butler, who was disqualified from driving, at Cowley Bridge roundabout behind the wheel of a BMW.

When he spotted the officers, he sped away, overtaking vehicles on blind hills and corners, crossing double white lines, and performing other dangerous manoeuvres along narrow country roads. He ultimately lost control, crashing into another vehicle on Barley Lane.

Trench-Butler abandoned the car and fled the scene. The other vehicle was carrying a pregnant woman, her partner, and their young son. The two adults sustained minor injuries.

Following his arrest, DCI Vicky Goff condemned his actions:

“Cameron Trench-Butler’s actions on 12 January showed no regard for other road users, and his driving resulted in a collision which must have been absolutely terrifying for the innocent family involved.

“This was one of a number of incidents whereby vehicles have been stolen during break-ins in the South West. Tackling such offending continues to be a force priority, and we have carried out a number of arrests following similar crimes being reported as part of Op Hyphenate.”

Anyone with information about crimes or vehicle thefts can report incidents online via the Devon & Cornwall Police website, or call 101. If a crime is in progress, always call 999.

Anonymous reports can be made via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.