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David and Lewis Squires were arrested earlier this year following a series of search warrants which also uncovered a hydraulic press, used to compact the drugs into large blocks. The warrants were executed on 5 March 2021, as part of enforcement by the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate. Officers attended the Squires’ home in Chorister Crescent, Hoo as well as a linked property in Ranscombe Close, Rochester and a garage off Seagull Road, Strood. Drugs were detected in various quantities at all three locations, the vast majority discovered in a safe at the address in Rochester. The hydraulic press was found inside the garage in Strood. Around £100,000 in cash, as well as designer watches and clothing, was also confiscated during the search warrants. Tick lists and text messages provided further evidence of the men’s involvement in the supply of Class A drugs. David Squires, 44, and Lewis Squires, 21, both pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court to being concerned in the supply of cocaine, and possession of criminal property.   Judge Philip Statman sentenced them both on Friday 15 October, stating: ‘The supply of cocaine is a curse of the modern age. It brings decay and degradation. It destroys families and communities.’ The court had heard that David Squires played a leading role in the criminal enterprise and he was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment. Lewis Squires received two years and six months. Detective Superintendent Lee Morton said: ‘The evidence we have provided has proved beyond any doubt the roles of both these men in supplying Class A drugs on a substantial scale. Information remains key to deterring and disrupting criminals such as David and Lewis Squires and we have dedicated teams of officers who are relentlessly targeting those involved in the supply of drugs in our communities. Your help also remains vital. You are our eyes and ears and if you see anything suspicious don’t hesitate to call police on 101, or 999 if it’s an emergency.’