South Wales: ‘Turkey teeth’ selfie leads to drug dealer’s arrest

In a bizarre twist that sounds stranger than fiction, a drug dealer was caught after proudly sharing a photo of his new “Turkey teeth” — unaware that the phone he sent it to was already in police hands.The image, taken from a dentist’s chair in Turkey, ultimately helped authorities identify and arrest him, exposing a wider drug supply operation.

Coran Davies, 23, sent the photo to a friend while undergoing cosmetic dental treatment abroad. However, he did not realise that the recipient’s phone had been seized and was under analysis as part of a separate investigation.

Alongside the image, Davies also shared messages related to supplying cocaine and cannabis effectively providing police with direct evidence.

Using facial recognition technology, officers were able to confirm his identity.

Turkey teeth: Selfie helps identify dealer

On 7 March, police stopped Davies while he was driving in Tonypandy. He was arrested along with his passenger, Dale Howell, 25. Both men are from Porth, Rhondda Cynon Taf.During the stop, officers discovered drugs and thousands of pounds in cash, further strengthening the case against them.

Charges and sentencing

Davies later pleaded guilty to multiple offences, including supplying cannabis, possessing criminal property, driving without insurance or a licence, and intent to supply cocaine.Howell pleaded guilty to possessing criminal property and intent to supply cocaine.

At Merthyr Crown Court, Davies was sentenced to 48 months in prison, while Howell received a 36-month sentence.

How a single mistake exposed a network

The case highlights how even small mistakes can unravel criminal operations. What may have seemed like a harmless message between associates instead became a crucial piece of evidence.

It also underscores how digital trails from images to messages are increasingly playing a central role in modern policing.