A drug dealer who hurled an insult in court while being led to the cells has landed himself a longer sentence for his abusive behaviour.
Callum Currey, 25, shouted “w****r” as he was being led to the cells after being sentenced to three years and nine months for prolific drug dealing in Exeter. His outburst earned him an extra month in prison over a contempt of court charge.
Currey, of no fixed abode, repeatedly interrupted proceedings at Exeter Crown Court before his final outburst. He became agitated when the court discussed whether he had been mistakenly released early from a previous prison sentence and how that affected his time served, reports Devon Live.
When Judge Stephen Climie urged him to calm down, Currey responded: “It’s not my fault youse let me out. You’re pissing me off, bruv.”
Currey had admitted to four counts of being involved in the supply of heroin and cocaine on different occasions in Exeter. Prosecutor Bathsheba Cassel described how police arrested Currey after witnessing a drug deal in Cowick Barton playing fields in September 2022. He attempted to flee on a bicycle but was stopped by officers, who kicked the bike to prevent his escape.
A search uncovered heroin and cocaine with a street value of £3,320, along with £3,442 in cash. Days later, he was stopped and searched again on Exeter High Street, where police found evidence of him using his phone to advertise drugs. One message even contained a threat to stab a runner over an underweight package.
In December 2024, Currey was arrested again, this time in possession of 14 grams of cocaine and £3,000 in cash. Messages revealed continued drug-dealing activity. He had a long criminal history, with 73 prior offenses, and had recently been released early—due to what appeared to be an administrative error—from a 40-month sentence for previous drug-related crimes.
Defense lawyer Evie Dean said Currey, who has ADHD and autism, is an addict trying to turn his life around. She noted that he had been making progress in prison, including completing a bricklaying course. However, Judge Climie highlighted Currey’s “spectacular array of offenses” for someone his age.
Following his sentencing, Currey directed the insult that led to his contempt charge. After spending an hour in the cells, he was brought back to court, where he apologised and admitted to the offense. J
udge Climie explained that maintaining order in court was part of his responsibility, adding, “Contempt of court happens from time to time. My starting point is generally three months. If there is an apology, I reduce that significantly to one month.” The judge believed Currey’s insult had been aimed at police officers, who had already left the building.
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