Hemlington Man Nabs Nearly Nine Years for International Drug Supply
A 30-year-old from Hemlington has been slammed with eight years and eight months behind bars. Luke Wilson, of Eddison Way, was caught up in a huge crackdown on Class A and B drug supply in Cleveland linked to global crime rings.
Drug Charges and Guilty Plea at Teesside Crown Court
Wilson appeared at Teesside Crown Court on Monday 19 May. He pleaded guilty to multiple offences, including:
- Possession with intent to supply Class A drugs
- Cultivating cannabis
- Conspiracy to supply Class A drugs
- Conspiracy to supply Class B drugs
French Police Crack Encrypted Drug Networks
The investigation kicked off in 2020 after French law enforcement cracked an encrypted communication platform used by dealers worldwide, including those in Cleveland. Seized messages, call logs, and images linked Wilson directly to the supply of cocaine and ketamine.
Following this, UK police raided two addresses on Rosewood Court. They seized significant quantities of Class A and B drugs.
Proceeds of Crime Act Hearing Looms
A Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) hearing will decide if authorities can seize Wilson’s criminal assets.
“This case involved drug offences committed in Cleveland but linked to wider international activity. Working alongside French authorities and other UK forces, we were able to dismantle a local operation tied to serious global crime. Let this be a warning — if you’re involved in drug trafficking, no matter where you operate, you will be tracked down and brought to justice.” — Detective Constable Brayfield
Police Urge Public to Report Drug Crimes
Cleveland Police have urged locals to keep eyes open and report suspicious activity. You can:
- Call 101 to speak to Cleveland Police
- Report anonymously via Crimestoppers or phone 0800 555 111
Drug dealers beware: the crackdown continues!
