Three members of 'el capo' drug line jailed
The trio, were involved in distributing heroin and crack cocaine from Luton into Hemel Hempstead between September 2020 and June 2021
Last updated 11th Jun 2024
Three members of a drug trafficking ring operating in Hemel Hempstead have been sentenced to a combined total of more than 14 years in prison.
The trio, who managed the 'Capo' drug line, were involved in distributing heroin and crack cocaine from Luton into Hemel Hempstead between September 2020 and June 2021. Hertfordshire Constabulary's Operation Mantis, a specialist team targeting county lines gangs, seized crack cocaine and cannabis with an estimated street value of £3,000, along with approximately £4,000 in cash, during raids on properties in Hemel Hempstead and Luton.
On June 10, at St Albans Crown Court, the defendants admitted their roles in the conspiracy to supply Class A drugs. The sentences handed down are as follows:
Timothy Alexander, 33, of Brendon Avenue, Luton, received six years and nine months.
Dean Bruton, 24, of Warwick Road, Stevenage, was sentenced to four years and ten months.
Ryan Sherry, 22, of Hockley Farm Road, Leicester, was given two years and seven months.
A fourth suspect, Branden Daly, 26, from Caddington, Luton, is scheduled to appear in court later.
Detective Constable Chris Duncan of Operation Mantis emphasized the importance of this disruption to the local drug trade: "The dismantling of the 'Capo' line marks a significant victory against drug-related crime in Hemel Hempstead. This outcome underscores our commitment to eradicating drug networks and serves as a warning that drug dealing will not go unpunished."
Duncan also highlighted the exploitation involved in such operations, noting that vulnerable individuals are often coerced into supporting the drug trade, either by providing premises or acting as distributors. "These gangs frequently exploit young people, pulling them into a cycle of crime and violence," he added.
The public is urged to report any information on drug-related activities through Hertfordshire Constabulary’s online reporting tools or by calling the non-emergency number 101. In cases of immediate danger, dial 999.