Chippenham’s Drug Kingpin Busted in £1.1 Million Cocaine Sting
Chippenham neighbourhood police have smashed a major Class A drug ring, netting 16.5 kilos of cocaine and taking down the so-called “King” of local drug supply, Joshua Carey. The operation, which started back in November 2020, exposed a ruthless and highly organised cocaine network that raked in over a million pounds.
How Cops Cracked the Case
It all began when officers stopped Joshua Carey, 31, and found him with a stash of cocaine and a fortune in cash. Although initially released under investigation, police dug deeper, running a seven-month probe that included analysing thousands of incriminating text messages.
During this time, multiple search warrants were executed, and heaps of evidence collected, revealing the gang’s cocaine sales and massive profits.
Heads Behind the Dealings Sentenced
- Joshua Carey of Royal Close, Chippenham pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, possession with intent to supply, and possession of criminal property. He was handed a total of five years in jail.
- Mark Ridd, 38, from Carnarvon Close, Chippenham, also pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three years and four months.
Proceeds of crime action is underway to claw back the illicit cash generated by the dealers.
Police Promise to Keep Drugs Off Chippenham Streets
“Carey and his accomplices were a highly organised and profitable set-up,” said Inspector James Brain. “Despite the scale of their operation, our team worked tirelessly to bring them down. We’ve disrupted cocaine supply, removed these drugs from our streets, and made sure they’re behind bars where they belong.”
Sergeant Richard Marshall added, “We rely heavily on community tips, and this case shows our zero tolerance towards drug dealing. Whether big or small, drug crime brings harm to our towns and cities, and we’ll always take action.”
Spot Drug Dealing? Report It Now
If you know anything about illegal drug activity, call the police on 101 or 999 if it’s an emergency. You can also report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
