A cocaine gang leader who operated a drug hotline has been sentenced to prison after attempting to escape by jumping from his bedroom window. Ricardo Samuels, 34, from Wolverhampton, sent an astonishing 23,749 text messages to drug users across the West Midlands between January and June last year to arrange the sale of Class A substances.
Details of the Operation
Wolverhampton Crown Court heard that Samuels managed the criminal enterprise with the assistance of his girlfriend, Kimberley Preece, 35, and drug courier Michael Ferringo, 33. Samuels pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine, MDMA, and zopiclone and received a sentence of two years and six months.
Sentences for Accomplices
Preece and Ferringo, both from Wolverhampton, also admitted to the same charges. Preece received a 22-month suspended sentence, with conditions including 30 activity days, 200 hours of unpaid work, and a five-month monitoring order. Ferringo was given a 21-month suspended sentence, with 10 activity days, 150 hours of unpaid work, and a four-month monitoring order.
Police Investigation
Detective Constable David Cockbill of the West Midlands Police County Lines Taskforce stated: "Drug dealers target the most vulnerable, ruining lives and blighting communities. We are pleased this drugs line has now been stopped in its tracks and the drug dealer running it behind bars."
Officers analyzed communications data linked to a mobile phone used to supply powder cocaine in the Wolverhampton area. Data gathered between January 11 and August 21 last year showed the number sent bulk messages to known drug users advertising cocaine, zopiclone, and MDMA. Further investigation revealed Samuels as the phone owner and the operation's value at approximately £94,000.
Arrests
The three suspects were arrested when police executed warrants at four properties on August 21 last year. The force urged anyone with information about drug dealing to contact them via Live Chat, by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555111.
