North East Drug Dealer Locked Up for Massive Cocaine and Heroin Supply
Christopher Finlay, 39, has been jailed for his role in a huge Class A drug operation across Northumbria. Between July 2019 and May 2020, Finlay was involved in moving a staggering 114 kilograms of cocaine and 18 kilograms of heroin.
Caught with Cocaine in Hidden Car Compartment
Finlay was first caught in May 2020 when police pulled him over and found two kilograms of cocaine hidden inside a secret compartment in his car. He later admitted to possession with intent to supply and was sentenced to four years and eight months at Newcastle Crown Court in October 2020.
Encrypted Messages and Drug Ledgers Reveal Bigger Picture
After his initial conviction, detectives cracked open encrypted messages exposing Finlay’s deeper involvement in drug trafficking. A search of his Newcastle home uncovered a drug tick list, detailing massive quantities of cocaine and heroin supplied over a 10-month period.
Seven and a Half Years Behind Bars
Finlay, from Blakelaw, pleaded guilty in September 2022 to conspiracy to supply cocaine and heroin. On March 14, he was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison at Newcastle Crown Court.
Detective Chief Inspector Marc Michael said: “This is an outstanding outcome thanks to the superb work of our detectives and officers. They have shown determination to bring Finlay to justice for his part in this large-scale conspiracy across our region.
“There is no place in our communities for Class A drugs. This conviction sends a strong message: we will not tolerate drug crime and will use every tactic to stop offenders.
“I thank everyone involved in this success. Under Operation Sentinel, we’ll continue to hit drug dealers hard and protect our communities.”
