Redcar man jailed for illegal drug operation.
A man has been sentenced after a complex cross-agency investigation was launched following intelligence of illegal drug activity.
Steven Munsey, 32, has been handed a prison sentence after work to dismantle and disrupt organised crime continues.
Officers from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), with the support of Cleveland Police Neighbourhood Teams, NCA and Border Force, carried out an extensive partner operation to target Munsey and seize any illicit cash and drugs from his illegal operation.
The investigation was launched when two international packages were intercepted from the United States of America on February 19 in 2020. The packages contained various cannabis products hidden in clothing and cosmetic items.
As the evidence began to build so did the number of intercepted packages, some to Munsey’s home address, and some to other properties under other names linked to him.
It wasn’t long before a warrant was granted for two properties in Redcar and on June 30 in 2020, officers put their plan into action – with a further address searched in Redcar as part of follow up enquiries.
A search of the addresses turned up over £6,000 in cash, mobile phones, drug paraphernalia and a large quantity of cannabis products in various forms.
Munsey was swiftly arrested and subsequently charged with two counts of importation/exportation offences, possession of Class A with intent to supply and four other possession charges.
Further activity was also carried out by the NEROCU Cyber and Dark Web teams to build an even stronger case against Munsey.
Evidence showed Munsey had been using the name ‘Ghostbudders’ to import and sell illegal drugs and using cryptocurrency to try and hide his illicit funds.
On March 15, Munsey, overwhelmed by the evidence against him, appeared at Teesside Crown Court and pleaded guilty to all charges, with a Newton Hearing taking place on April 26.
Yesterday, (Thursday), Munsey, who lives in Redcar, appeared at the same court and was sentenced to two years four months imprisonment.
Speaking after the sentencing, NEROCU Sgt Neil Lovat, said: “This has been a huge win for partnership working. It is a prime example of the lengths we will go with partners to protect the region from harmful organised crime and illicit drug supply.
“From the moment these drugs tried to enter our country we were aware and tracking them, building our case, and ensuring that those responsible would have their day in court.
“This is exactly the type of work that will continue as part of Operation Sentinel – our dedicated regional initiative to tackling illegal drug supply and organised crime.
“We will also continue to work with our partners to dismantle the criminal groups who try to profit from the sale and supply of illegal drugs, as well as ensuring those affected by drug addiction receive the support they need.”
If you see anyone acting suspiciously in your community, or have any information about local crime, you can report it to your local police force or alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.