A major cocaine conspiracy spanning the UK has been dismantled. Seven men received a combined jail term exceeding 60 years following a police operation that uncovered tonnes of drugs connected to their network.
The Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU) launched a raid after stopping James Garlick, 30, and Shane Wintle, 32, in Newcastle-under-Lyme. Officers discovered 52 kilogrammes of cocaine valued at up to £7.8 million in their vehicle. Garlick and Wintle were identified as the masterminds behind a nationwide courier network distributing the drugs.
Between 20 May and 19 June last year, the gang organised the supply of over 350 kilogrammes of cocaine. They coordinated drug deliveries across the country using encrypted messaging apps.
All seven members of the syndicate were sentenced at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court today after pleading guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine. The sentences are as follows:
- James Garlick – 9 years 7 months
- Shane Wintle – 9 years 7 months
- Julian Buggs – 9 years 5 months
- Harry Upton – 9 years
- Sam Upton – 8 years 2 months
- David Rowley – 8 years 3 months
- Andrew Rushton – 7 years 8 months
Other members caught in the syndicate include Andrew Rushton (46), Harry Upton (30), Sam Upton (28), Julian Buggs (57), and David Rowley (60). All seven were arrested in October last year.
This successful bust marks a significant victory in the ongoing fight against drug crime across the UK.
Originally published by UKNIP.
