Bradford-to-Bridlington Gang Busted in Major Drug Haul
A ruthless gang flooded the streets between Bradford and Bridlington with Class A and B drugs from June to October 2021. Police have now dealt a heavy blow to their operations.
Heavy Sentences for Drug Dealers
- John Warring-Davies, 30, from Bradford, was handed 15 years for Class A drug supply plus 18 months for affray—back to back.
- Neil Wright, 40, also convicted (sentencing details withheld).
- Ella 1, 39, from Filey, got a 2-year suspended sentence and 250 hours of community service for cannabis supply and possession of criminal property.
Earlier, four other gang members faced sentencing at Hull Crown Court in November 2022.
Police Crack Down with Multi-Location Raids
Following a tip-off in May 2021, police launched a major probe into the county lines drug trafficking. On 14 October 2021, officers executed seven simultaneous raids across Bradford, Bridlington, and North Yorkshire.
They seized large quantities of cocaine, crack cocaine, cannabis, and around £30,000 in cash. The haul also included numerous bladed weapons—axes, zombie knives, and samurai swords—and several mobile phones used to coordinate the drug trade.
“Using phone data and CCTV, we tracked how the gang operated,” said Detective Inspector Matt Grantham. “Warring-Davies, Lee, Falkingham, Simpson, Day, and Wright were involved in organising cannabis and cocaine supply across the county line from Bradford to Bridlington.”
Further Busts and Ongoing Investigations
In November 2021, detectives raided a Bridlington property near the Promenade, arresting two more men, Jackson and Gibson. They recovered heroin, cannabis, £6,000 cash, weapons, and phones linked to crack cocaine and heroin supply.
By March 2022, police received fresh intel that the county line was active again. They raided addresses in Bradford and Bridlington, confiscating £7,000 cash, more Class A and B drugs, weapons, designer goods, and phones used to coordinate the drug ring.
“This verdict sends a strong message to those dealing drugs in our communities,” added Det Insp Grantham. “Stopping this gang prevents serious crime and anti-social behaviour, protecting local residents. We remain committed to bringing criminals to justice.”
