Chippenham Drug Kingpin Busted After £1.1 Million Cocaine Plot Unravelled
A major drug ring in Chippenham has been smashed thanks to sharp police work and community intel. Joshua Carey, who boldly crowned himself the “King” of drug supply in town, has been jailed alongside his accomplices following a seven-month crackdown.
Cash, Cocaine, and a Clever Sting
The investigation kicked off in November 2020 when officers stopped Joshua Carey and found him carrying a stash of cocaine and a fortune in cash. Although arrested, he was released under investigation, allowing cops to dig deeper into the sprawling drug network.
Over the next seven months, officers executed multiple warrants and analysed thousands of text messages. Expert review revealed the gang sold a staggering 16.5 kilos of cocaine, raking in around £1.1 million.
Guilty Pleas and Heavy Sentences
- Joshua Carey, 31, of Royal Close, Chippenham, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, possession with intent, and possession of criminal property. He was sentenced to five years plus additional terms running concurrently.
- Mark Ridd, 38, of Carnarvon Close, Chippenham, also pleaded guilty to conspiracy and received three years and four months behind bars.
Proceeds of crime proceedings have been launched to seize any profits from their illegal dealings.
Police Praise Community Help in Major Drug Bust
“Carey and his accomplices were highly organised, running a lucrative cocaine operation in Chippenham. Despite its scale, our neighbourhood team gathered solid evidence to secure these convictions,” said Inspector James Brain.
Sergeant Richard Marshall added: “We rely on tips from locals. This case shows we’re deadly serious about wiping out drug dealing whether big or small. These criminals bring nothing but harm, and we’ll keep taking action.”
If you have info on drug dealing, don’t hesitate to call police on 101, dial 999 in emergencies, or anonymously ring Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
