FOREST BANK PRISONER COLLUDED WITH OTHERS TO IMPORT CANNABIS FROM THE USA

The men were involved in the importation of multiple packages of drugs that were intercepted by Border Force officials between 15 June 2021 to 6 November 2021 at Heathrow Airport and the International Logistics Centre in Langley.

Jason Warren had multiple packages sent to his property and was involved in arranging further packages to be sent to various other addresses.

On 24 November 2021 officers executed a warrant at Warren's property on Hillside Close and arrested the 35-year-old.

A search of the bedroom located a firearm underneath the mattress at the bottom of the bed. In the kitchen a plastic bag in the freezer contained amphetamine along with drug paraphernalia.

The analysis of Warren's mobile phone identified others involved. Corey Atkinson was serving a prison sentence in HMP Forest Bank when he was communicating with Warren via a mobile phone.

Atkinson directed Warren to collect the boxes from the others and take them to Andrew Dicken who would hand over money to Warren. 

After being charged all six defendants pleaded guilty to various offences including the importation of cannabis, money laundering and possession of a firearm.

They appeared at Minshull street Crown Court on Friday 13 January 2023 and were sentenced.

Jason Warren, of no fixed address, was sentenced to six years for conspiracy to import cannabis with the intent to avoid a prohibition, conspiracy to acquire criminal property, possession with intent to supply amphetamine and possession of a prohibited weapon.

Corey Atkinson, aged 27, of no fixed address was sentenced to 27 months for conspiracy to import cannabis with the intent to avoid a prohibition and conspiracy to acquire criminal property.

Andrew Dicken, aged 41, of Leyburn Avenue, Urmston, Manchester was sentenced to 21 months for conspiracy to import cannabis with the intent to avoid a prohibition.

Detective Constable Michelle Lomax, of Oldham's Challenger organised crime team, said:

Quote

 

"This should send a message to individuals who attempt to import illegal drugs into the country that packages, no matter how concealed you think they may be, can be checked and intercepted at the border.

"The investigation didn't stop at one individual. After Warren's arrest we were able to seize his mobile phone and identify those working alongside him who were also reaping the profits of the conspiracy.

"What was significant is how we discovered a firearm that had been concealed underneath a mattress and then taken it out of circulation, preventing it from potentially being used to cause serious harm or threats to others."