Five Drug Dealers Jailed for Nearly 40 Years After Massive Gosport Bust
Five criminals have been slammed with almost four decades behind bars for running a Class A drug empire based in Gosport. The operation raked in huge sums, with cops seizing drugs worth over £150,000 and around £7,000 in cash during raids back in April 2016.
Heavy Sentences for Class A Supply
- James Hallett, 29, of Ferrol Road, Gosport – 14 years for heroin and cocaine supply and possession with intent to supply.
- Lee Sheehan, 48, of Gunnislake, Cornwall – 10 years for heroin and cocaine supply.
- James Whistler, 26, of The Chine, Gosport – 4 years for heroin supply.
- Charlie Jeacock, 23, of Grove Road, Rayleigh, Essex – 7 years after pleading guilty to heroin and cocaine supply.
- Billy Fitzearle, 35, of Southampton Road, Titchfield – 4½ years after guilty plea for heroin and cocaine supply.
Inside the Operation: Gosport to South East Hampshire
Detective Constable Mark Brockman led the probe and revealed the gang used a house in Cosham to deal drugs. They were spotted trafficking heroin and cocaine across South East Hampshire.
“This sends a clear message: drug dealing and the violence it fuels won’t be tolerated,” said DC Brockman.
He added, “Billy Fitzearle was driving Charlie Jeacock around for drug deals. On April 1, 2016, Lee Sheehan and Jeacock were caught red-handed in Portchester with heroin, cocaine, and cash.”
Key Evidence Seized in Multiple Warrants
The police found a sim card detailing dealing activity from October 2015, and plenty of drug paraphernalia, including benzocaine – used to cut cocaine.
At Meon Mews, Cosham, officers seized a massive 163g of 85% pure cocaine worth around £40,000 once cut, plus heroin valued at £100,000, and smaller wraps totalling £15,000.
Community Urged to Help Bust Drug Dealers
Police stress the importance of the public’s role in spotting drug crime. Warning signs include:
- A sudden spike in visitors to a house with short stays
- Quick exchanges between groups near flats or houses
- Residents frequently leaving and returning in short spans
- People hanging around, constantly on mobile phones
- Unfamiliar or new cars parked outside
If you spot suspicious activity, contact your local police on 101 or anonymously tip off Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The operation was part of Hampshire’s Fortress campaign, cracking down on drug supply while supporting vulnerable people caught up in crime.
