Ryan Lapworth, 45, who aided in the distribution of drugs via the 'MJ' drugs line in Longsight, was frustrated by the number of drug users in his flat. His involvement stemmed from a long-term heroin addiction.

From December of last year to February this year, the drug line received numerous calls for crack and heroin. Lapworth allowed his council flat to be used three times in exchange for money.

Police investigations revealed Lapworth complained to co-defendant Justin Shaw, who controlled the drugs line. In one message, he protested about drug users in his flat, calling it "not a kindergarten for stoners."

Lapworth admitted to being involved in the supply of class A drugs. He received a suspended sentence. Shaw, 22, of Richmond Grove East, Manchester, will be sentenced on October 16.

Prosecutor Henry Blackshaw highlighted that during the three-month period, about 600 calls were made to the MJ line. Most dealings occurred in Longsight.

A police raid at Lapworth's flat in Ardwick discovered a bag of white powder and a mobile phone. When Shaw was arrested, a Nokia phone with the SIM card for the drugs line was found.

Analysis of call data showed Lapworth was anxious about a police probe. He expressed concerns about ongoing drug activities and police presence near his residence.

He complained in a February 14 message that more people were packaging drugs in his flat than agreed and he expressed concerns about their cannabis smoking. Lapworth has past convictions and was recently in court for begging.

Prosecutors noted there was no evidence of direct drug sales by Lapworth. He admitted to allowing his flat to be used for drug activities due to his own addiction.

Lapworth's lawyer, Niamh McGinty, noted his enduring heroin addiction started after losing his parents at a young age. She mentioned his struggles with drug and alcohol abuse and his willingness to seek rehabilitation.

Judge Peter Horgan emphasized Lapworth's significant drug habit and his voluntary participation in allowing drug sales in his flat to support his addiction. He was handed a 12-month sentence, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to complete a drug rehabilitation program and additional activity requirements.

Judge Horgan warned Lapworth about the consequences of breaching the order, to which Lapworth affirmed his understanding.