A Midland gang has been sentenced to a combined total of more than 15 years in prison for plotting to supply drugs both domestically and internationally. The group was involved in a conspiracy to import and export cocaine, ketamine, and cannabis.
Investigation and Arrests
Staffordshire Police's major and organised crime proactive team conducted dawn raids in Tamworth last October, arresting four men and a woman. The force described the operation as a "fast-paced investigation, which exposed a sophisticated criminal conspiracy where illicit drugs were exported and imported internationally at volume."
Sentences Handed Down
All five defendants were sentenced at Stafford Crown Court on Friday, May 29.
- Dean Whitehurst, 32, from Hockley, received five years and seven months for admitting two counts of conspiring to fraudulently evade a prohibition on the importation of class B drugs ketamine and cannabis, being concerned in the supply of cannabis, possession of cannabis, and being concerned in the supply of ketamine.
- Jameel Hassan, 38, from Wilnecote, was jailed for four years and two months after pleading guilty to conspiring to fraudulently evade a prohibition on the importation of ketamine and two counts of being concerned in the supply of cannabis and ketamine.
- Liam Honnor, 35, from Bolehall, was sentenced to two years and nine months for admitting two counts of conspiring to fraudulently evade a prohibition on the importation of ketamine and cannabis, and possessing criminal property.
- Neil Moore, 49, from Wilnecote, also received two years and nine months for pleading guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine and ketamine.
- Sian Ansell, 35, from Bolehall, was given a six-month sentence suspended for 18 months, a 15-day rehabilitation order, and 100 hours of unpaid work for pleading guilty to conspiring to fraudulently evade a prohibition on the importation of cannabis and possession of criminal property.
Police Response
Supt Victoria Downing stated: "All five pleaded guilty in court when faced with the evidence against them, which is testament to the work of officers and staff involved in this investigation. Together, we're working hard to bring a stop to drug networks that aim to profit from addiction and vulnerability in our local communities."
Staffordshire Police added: "As part of Operation Target, we remain committed to working proactively across Staffordshire to tackle the criminal gangs responsible for drug dealing and high-harm offences in our county. We're working hard every single day to act against those suspected of high-harm offences, including drug supply, firearm possession and gang activity."
Anyone concerned about drug dealing in their area is encouraged to contact police via 101 or Live Chat on the website, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
