A former Essex Police officer has been sentenced after admitting to money laundering offences linked to her sons’ drug dealing operation.
Judy Yuen, 48, was handed a 13-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, at Basildon Crown Court on Thursday, February 6.
Yuen, of Cotman Road, Colchester, had previously pleaded guilty to money laundering charges in July 2024 following an extensive investigation by Essex Police’s Operation Raptor team, which targets county lines and drug supply offences.
Mother’s Role in Drug Dealing Operation Uncovered
The investigation into Yuen began as part of a wider probe into her two sons, Tai Parsons (23) and Leo Parsons (19), who were under surveillance for suspected drug dealing activities from September 2022.
Detectives discovered that large sums of money were being transferred between Yuen and her sons’ bank accounts between January 2022 and February 2023.
Forensic analysis of her phone revealed messages between Yuen and Tai Parsons discussing financial transactions, reinforcing suspicions of money laundering.
A specialist officer trained in financial crime investigations could find no legitimate explanation for why Yuen would have access to such large amounts of money.
As a result, Yuen was arrested in March 2023 and formally charged three months later.
Dismissed from Essex Police for Gross Misconduct
Yuen was dismissed without notice from Essex Police in November 2023, after being found guilty of gross misconduct in a private hearing.
The hearing was held behind closed doors to protect the ongoing criminal investigation into her role in the drug supply network.
Senior Officers Condemn Yuen’s Actions
Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Nolan strongly condemned Yuen’s betrayal of public trust, saying:
“When police officers take their oaths, they commit to serving the public, policing without fear or favour, and tackling crime. The overwhelming majority of officers live and breathe their promise every single day.”
“Judy Yuen’s actions are disgraceful, and every officer, member of staff, and volunteer will be disgusted with what she has done. Her actions do them, and their work, a huge disservice.”
“She did not deter or stop the criminal activity that was taking place—she actively facilitated it. That behaviour has no place in Essex Police.”
Operation Raptor Team Praised for Investigation
Deputy Chief Constable Nolan praised the Operation Raptor team for their diligence and determination in bringing Yuen’s offences to light and dismantling the Parsons brothers’ drug operation.
She also acknowledged the work of Essex Police’s Counter Corruption Unit, which worked alongside the Raptor team to swiftly remove Yuen from the force without compromising the criminal case.
Further Action: Proceeds of Crime Proceedings to Follow
Essex Police have confirmed they will now pursue Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) proceedings, which aim to recover any financial assets gained through illegal means.
The sentencing marks a significant victory in the force’s fight against corruption and organised crime, reaffirming its commitment to holding officers accountable and maintaining public trust.
