Leeds Cocaine Kingpins Jailed After Gun Found in Student Area
Two men running a major cocaine operation from a house in Leeds’ student hotspot have been locked up after police uncovered a gun on the premises. Connor McGibbon, 32, and Joshua Wilcock, 25, were caught following an undercover probe by Leeds District Precision Team targeting organised crime.
Nearly 20 Years Behind Bars for Coke and Firearms
McGibbon from Hyde Park received five and a half years for possessing a firearm, nearly seven years for dealing cocaine, plus additional time for handling criminal property — culminating in a hefty sentence. Wilcock, also from Hyde Park, was jailed for five years for the firearm offence and over two years for drug charges. Both men denied carrying a firearm but were convicted by unanimous jury verdicts.
Gun, Cash and Cocaine Discovered During Raids
- Officers seized £10,500 cash and mobile phones in June during a stop-and-search.
- McGibbon was caught with £2,500 cash, a small stash of cocaine, and a safe key.
- A police search uncovered a safe loaded with £10,000 worth of cocaine, dealer bags, scales, and cocaine cutting agents.
- Critically, a converted starter pistol capable of firing live rounds was found in the upstairs room.
Operation Was A Hub for Cocaine Dilution and Delivery
The Hyde Park terraced house served as a base to weigh, dilute, and package cocaine for street-level deals. McGibbon ran the operation while Wilcock handled deliveries. Detector Inspector Phil Jackson said:
“These two men were prolific cocaine suppliers with access to a deadly weapon to protect their trade. Their sentences send a clear warning to those dabbling in drugs and firearms crime – you will face the consequences.”
Jackson added the supply of illegal drugs fuels crime and destroys lives across communities. Police urge anyone with information to come forward anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to help them crack down on organised drug crime.
