Gang Sentenced for Class A Drug Smuggling in North-East Prisons
A gang involved in smuggling Class A drugs into North-East prisons has been sentenced following a thorough investigation
North-East, Prisons, Drug Smuggling, Gang Sentencing, Newcastle, UK
Newcastle: A recent drug smuggling operation inside North-East prisons has led to some serious consequences for a gang involved. They were sentenced after a thorough investigation.
The whole thing kicked off back in August 2022 when officers found a stash of prohibited items hidden in a speaker during a cell search. This included a smartphone and other gadgets that definitely shouldn’t be in prison.
Once they got a hold of that, the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit teamed up with prison counter-corruption teams to dig deeper. They spent countless hours sifting through messages and calls, uncovering a drug conspiracy that even involved a prison nurse.
It turned out that Shaun Mason, along with two other inmates, was trying to smuggle drugs into HMP Northumberland and HMP Durham. As the investigation unfolded, they found five more people involved, including the prison nurse.
After a series of coordinated arrests, all eight suspects eventually pleaded guilty. Sentences varied, with some getting time behind bars and others receiving suspended sentences or community service.
Interestingly, Shaun and Kayleigh Mason are still awaiting their sentences, which are set for March. Shaun’s already serving time, and Kayleigh has been charged with possession of criminal property.
It’s a wild story, but it just goes to show how serious the issue of drug smuggling is, even behind bars. The authorities are clearly on it, and it’s good to see justice being served.