Five drug dealers have been sentenced to nearly four decades in prison after a significant Class A drug bust in Gosport. The criminals ran a drug empire that yielded drugs valued at over £150,000 and approximately £7,000 in cash during raids conducted in April 2016.
The sentences handed down are as follows:
- James Hallett, 29, of Ferrol Road, Gosport, received 14 years for heroin and cocaine supply and possession with intent to supply.
- Lee Sheehan, 48, of Gunnislake, Cornwall, was sentenced to 10 years for heroin and cocaine supply.
- James Whistler, 26, of The Chine, Gosport, received 4 years for heroin supply.
- Charlie Jeacock, 23, of Grove Road, Rayleigh, Essex, was given 7 years after pleading guilty to heroin and cocaine supply.
- Billy Fitzearle, 35, of Southampton Road, Titchfield, received 4½ years following a guilty plea for heroin and cocaine supply.
Detective Constable Mark Brockman, who led the investigation, revealed that the gang operated from a house in Cosham and trafficked heroin and cocaine across South East Hampshire. He stated, “This sends a clear message: drug dealing and the violence it fuels won’t be tolerated.” DC Brockman also explained that Billy Fitzearle was driving Charlie Jeacock during drug deals, and on April 1, 2016, Lee Sheehan and Jeacock were caught red-handed in Portchester with heroin, cocaine, and cash.
During multiple warrants, police seized key evidence including a sim card detailing dealing activity from October 2015 and various drug paraphernalia such as benzocaine, which is used to cut cocaine. At Meon Mews, Cosham, officers confiscated 163 grams of 85% pure cocaine valued at around £40,000 once cut, heroin worth £100,000, and smaller wraps totaling £15,000.
Authorities urge the community to assist in identifying drug crime by watching for warning signs such as a sudden increase in visitors to a property with short stays, quick exchanges between groups near homes or flats, residents frequently leaving and returning in short periods, people loitering while constantly using mobile phones, and unfamiliar or new cars parked outside.
If suspicious activity is observed, the public is encouraged to contact their local police on 101 or provide anonymous tips to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111. This operation was part of Hampshire’s Fortress campaign, which focuses on cracking down on drug supply while supporting vulnerable individuals affected by crime.
Originally published by UKNIP.
