Preston drug gang jailed for over 100 years following major police operation
Two Preston-based organised crime groups dismantled after police uncover drug lines run from prison cells and coordinated street-level dealing.
Eighteen people involved in operating drug supply lines across Preston have been sentenced to more than 100 years in prison following a major investigation by Lancashire Police.
The operation targeted two organised crime groups (OCGs) operating from the Broadgate and Avenham areas of the city. The gangs used multiple phone lines to coordinate the supply of crack cocaine and heroin, with some lines branded with names such as the ‘Bill and Ben’, ‘Frank’, ‘Batman’, and ‘AK’ lines. Bulk messages were sent to drug users advertising availability and offers.
Despite already serving custodial sentences, Aaron Knowles and Joshua Elder, who led the Broadgate and Avenham groups, continued to coordinate drug activity from their prison cells.
In February 2024, officers from Preston Police Intelligence Department executed multiple warrants, seizing Class A and B drugs, weapons, and cash.
The gang members were sentenced last week at Preston Crown Court, having pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.
Sentences Handed Down
Aaron Knowles, 26, no fixed address – 12 years, 7 months
Marcus Knowles, 24, Kenmure Place – 13 years, 5 months (including assault)
Jack Tunstall, 24, no fixed address – 10 years
Jamie Knowles, 21, Kenmure Place – 9 years, 4 months
Joshua Elder, 23, no fixed address – 8 years, 5 months
Darren Hollinshead, 37, Parish Gardens – 7 years, 6 months
Cameron Farley, 24, Maple Drive – 6 years
Connor Campbell, 26, Ancona Drive – 4 years, 6 months
Kenzi Tunstall, 22, Brixey Street – 4 years, 6 months
Brandon Wright, 20, Ancona Drive – 4 years, 5 months
Gareth Cornthwaite, 45, Colenso Road – 4 years, 1 month
Daniel Wright, 19, Dylan Crescent – 3 years, 8 months
Leighton Dixon, 23, Dawson Walk – 3 years
Kian Lowe, 24, Beckett Court – 3 years
David Baillie-King, 19, Euston Street – 2 years, 6 months
Luis Kelly, 23, Dodgson Place – 2 years, 4 months
Daanyall Hussain, 24, Norris Street – 2 years, 3 months
Jessica Hindle, 46, Elcho Street – 2 years, 3 months
Four boys aged 16 and 17 received youth rehabilitation orders after pleading guilty to conspiracy charges.
Two individuals who assisted the OCGs were sentenced to community service:
Bryher Scott, 21 – 12-month suspended sentence, 150 hours unpaid work
Chloe Forde, 25 – 16-month suspended sentence, 150 hours unpaid work
Police Response
Detective Sergeant Richard Clancy said:
“This was a complex and extensive operation to dismantle two groups involved in the major supply of Class A drugs in Preston.
“The supply and use of drugs brings misery and criminality to communities, and we are determined to stop those criminals who choose to deal in drugs.
“I welcome the prison sentences handed out at court and hope they act as a deterrent to those tempted to get involved in such criminality.”
The investigation formed part of Operation Warrior, Lancashire Police’s strategy to tackle serious and organised crime, supported by Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw. The initiative targets gangs and individuals involved in drug supply, violence, and intimidation across the county.