Dartford Drug Lords’ Appeal Slammed
Two brothers from Dartford, Jamie and Cavan Hanna, who ran a £3.5 million cocaine empire, have seen their appeals dismissed. Sentenced to 25 years each in 2022, the duo’s attempt to overturn their convictions on legal grounds was rejected on November 4.
Encrypted Phones Couldn’t Hide Crime
The Hanna brothers were central figures in one of the biggest drug networks in the region. Using encrypted phones, they orchestrated the distribution of £3.5 million worth of cocaine across the UK. They also laundered over £1 million in cash.
Trial Drama and Legal Claims
At Woolwich Crown Court, the brothers turned on their defence. Both dismissed their lawyers and skipped parts of the trial. Cavan accused his lawyers of gross negligence, claiming crucial evidence was missed. Jamie said his counsel withdrew after a disagreement, leaving him without representation. Despite these claims, judges upheld the convictions.
Co-Defendants Also Sentenced
- Daniel Dalligan (Crayford) – 10 years
- Anthony Dominy (Bexleyheath) – 11.5 years
- Thomas Mercer (Welling) – 4.5 years
Police Praise and Warning
Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Masterson of the Met’s Specialist Crime Command lauded the operation that smashed the network. “The Hanna brothers thought encrypted devices made them untouchable, but our team’s persistence brought them down,” he said.
“There’s a clear link between drug dealing and violence—devastating communities across London. We remain committed to busting these organised crime gangs and cutting drugs off the streets.”
The court’s ruling sends a clear message: organised crime won’t be tolerated, and those behind it will face justice.
