Cheshire drug gang sentenced to 46 years in prison

An organized crime gang involved in a large drug operation has been sentenced to a total of 46 years in prison. The group, active from July 2023 to September 2024, trafficked around 8 kilograms of cocaine and 200 kilograms of cannabis, earning over £1 million in profits. The men were sentenced today at Liverpool Crown Court. The ringleader, 36-year-old John Collins, directed the gang's activities from Cheshire. He presented himself as a successful businessman, but his wealth came from illegal operations. Collins received a sentence of 12 years and nine months in jail. Another key member, 37-year-old Stephen Lloyd, also received 12 years and nine months. He was responsible for directing couriers to transport drugs and cash. Owen Lloyd, Stephen's cousin, managed the weighing and packaging of drugs and was sentenced to six years and nine months. Jack Miller, 26, who started as a runner and later took on greater responsibilities, was sentenced to six years and nine months. Konrad Kupczyk, 28, supplied cocaine to the gang and arranged deliveries using encrypted messaging. He received a sentence of seven years and six months. The gang was arrested on September 5, 2024, during coordinated police raids across Cheshire. Authorities seized large amounts of cash, drugs, and valuable items from several locations. Detective Chief Inspector Zoe Russo emphasized the importance of dismantling this dangerous drug network and committed to continuing efforts against organized crime. She urged anyone with information about drug activities to contact the police.