Man jailed for 22 years over prison drugs plot

Ferry had shared his intention of leading the drugs plot once released, police said

A man who played a part in supplying cocaine and cannabis while he was in prison has been jailed for more than two decades.

Michael Ferry used an 'EncroChat' encrypted mobile device to co-ordinate the delivery of 53 kg (116 lbs) of cocaine and at least 17 kg (37 lbs) of cannabis in 2020, while serving a previous sentence at HMP Northumberland.

Ferry, previously of Wimslow Close, Wallsend, was sentenced to 22 years and six months at Newcastle Crown Court on Tuesday.

Det Ch Insp Marc Michael, of Northumbria Police, said Ferry was prominent "within an organised crime group".

The 33-year-old had been serving a three-year-and-nine-month sentence for a violent disorder offence committed in December 2016 when he took part in the drugs supply scheme.

He had also outlined his intention to assume control of the operation upon his release from prison, Northumbria Police said.

'Well-connected figure'

Ferry was further arrested in November 2020, and pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to supply cocaine and conspiracy to supply cannabis at Newcastle Crown Court earlier this month.

Det Ch Insp Michael said: "Ferry is a prominent and well-connected figure who holds significant standing within an organised crime group.

"He was fully aware of the illegalities of his actions, and sought to profit from the trade of a hugely destructive and addictive substance in our communities."