Matthew Harrison, 52, from Lees New Road, Oldham, was sentenced to 12 years in prison at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court on 26 February 2026 following a major drug bust.
On 18 September 2025, officers stopped Harrison’s black BMW on Middleton Road in Oldham. During the search, police discovered a significant haul including 6kg of cannabis, approximately 1,000 MDMA tablets, and 55g of cocaine. Harrison was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A and B drugs.
While Harrison was in custody, police conducted a search of his home and uncovered £156,000 hidden beneath bedside drawers. In addition to the cash, officers seized a Rolex watch, several paintings, and two cash-counting machines.
Harrison had previously admitted to charges of possession with intent to supply cannabis and MDMA, as well as money laundering, during an earlier hearing.
Detective Constable Andy Pearson from the Oldham Challenger team commented on the case: “This sentence shows how seriously we take drug dealing and the damage it does to our communities. Harrison was caught with dangerous drugs and dirty money, clearly profiting from pain and misery.”
He added, “Our officers work relentlessly to catch crooks like him. This conviction should reassure the public we’re cleaning up our streets and dragging offenders before the courts.”
Detective Constable Pearson also urged the public to report suspicious activity: “If you deal drugs or launder money, we will find you, we’ll act, and you will be punished. If you spot drug dealing in your neighbourhood, ring 101 or anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
