Thirteen jailed for more than 160 years over Derby drug conspiracy
Investigations reveal widespread drug supply operation
Thirteen individuals have been sentenced to a combined total of over 160 years in prison due to their involvement in a large-scale drug conspiracy in Derby.
The investigation revealed that the group imported and distributed high-purity cocaine across Derby, supplying other dealers for onward distribution.
Headline figures in this network included Tony Lewis and Harninder Purewal, who were responsible for facilitating multi-kilogram imports of Class A drugs. Lewis had significant dealings both in the UK and abroad, frequently travelling to Dubai to enhance his criminal activities.
The cocaine brought into Derby was supplied to organised crime groups led by Dominic Hulland and Aaron O'Donnell. There, figures like Amanda Hutchinson and Kyle Steadman purchased wholesale quantities for onward sale. Hulland and Bowler were caught in possession of cocaine and cash in July 2024, leading to further seizures, including cryptocurrency.
The complex conspiracy involved key people like Samir Hassan, who, previously linked to rapper 50 Cent, took part in extensive money laundering and cocaine trafficking. Hassan stated he worked in the music industry and sought court permission to travel with 50 Cent on a European tour.
The investigation sheds light on how drugs supplied by O'Donnell and Hulland were intended for a broad customer base in Derby, who themselves were dealers profiting from further sales.
Charged and convicted, the individuals received sentences at Derby Crown Court:
Tony Lewis, 37, of Robert Adam Road, Derby: jailed for 11 years
Harninder Purewal, 47, of Bridle Gate Lane, Derby: jailed for 20 years
Dominic Hulland, 29, of Wood Road, Derby: jailed for 16 years and six months
Aaron O’Donnell, 36, formerly of Hobkirk Drive, Derby: jailed for 14 years and eight months
Max Bowler, 30, of Carlton Road, Long Eaton: jailed for 13 years and six months
Samir Hassan, 37, of Benworth Road, London: jailed for 18 years and six months
Alan Hulland, 54, of Main Road, Elvaston: jailed for nine years
Nicholas Cleary, 32, of Dolobran Road, Birmingham: jailed for seven years and six months
Jordan Hudson, 31, of Beaumont Walk, Derby: jailed for 10 years
Joshua Keyland, 35, of Holderness Close, Derby: jailed for 13 years and six months
Lucas Sankey, 29, of Duffield Road, Derby: jailed for eight years and six months
Valentino Talic, 30, of Beaufort Street, Derby: jailed for eight years
Kyle Steadman, 32, of Almond Street, Derby: jailed for 12 years
Amanda Hutchinson, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine, is due for sentencing on 17th August.
Detective Inspector Beth Lee from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit, remarked on the wide-reaching harm caused by cocaine trafficking, stating, "Cocaine trafficking drives violence, intimidation, and exploitation allowing criminal networks to maintain their influence and profits. Our aim is to get to the worst offenders first and cut off the supply."