Drug Gang Boss and Crew Lock Up After Massive Cocaine Bust
Three Go Down, Two Get Suspended Sentences
Three men have been jailed for a combined total of 18 years after being caught running a cocaine empire in Essex. Two others escaped prison but were handed suspended sentences and hefty unpaid work orders. The gang’s sentencing took place at Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday.
Gang Leader Steven Mann’s Lavish Lifestyle Exposed
Steven Mann, 38, led the group from his home in Witham. Investigators targeted him after noticing his flashy lifestyle, which included a McLaren 600LT worth over £100,000 and several Rolls Royces. His earnings couldn’t possibly cover such extravagance.
Police linked Mann to a retail shop in Witham, where they seized £24,000 worth of cocaine. This premises acted as a base for cartel meetings and operations.
The Gang’s Line-Up and Roles
- Steven Mann, the kingpin, charged with conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.
- James Lucia, Mann’s main runner until falling out, charged with two counts of conspiracy.
- Jordan Newell, who took over street-level dealings, charged with conspiracy and possession with intent.
- Dean Newman, Newell’s subordinate, charged with involvement in supply.
- Billy Rice, supervised drug runner, charged with conspiracy.
Sentences Delivered: Justice Served
- Mann: 8 years in prison
- Newell: 5 years and 3 months
- Lucia: 4 years and 6 months
- Rice: 2 years suspended plus 250 hours unpaid work
- Newman: 2 years suspended plus 300 hours unpaid work
Police Praise Complex Operation
“This investigation was extremely complex,” said Detective Superintendent Lee Morton. “Mann tried everything to sabotage it, but our team was relentless. We proved his deep involvement beyond doubt. This group didn’t care about the harm they caused by selling drugs to vulnerable people. Thanks to our efforts, Essex is a safer place.
