Mark Ford successfully defends client charged with major drugs conspiracy

Following a trial before the Teesside Crown Court lasting 4 weeks, Mark Ford’s client, Simon Clegg, 30, of Breezehill Road, Oldham, was on trial for in a conspiracy to supply heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine and was cleared of his involvement.

The Crown alleged that an organised crime group operating from the Manchester area had engaged in a major conspiracy to supply class A drugs to the North East for over a year. The value of the drugs supplied was estimated to run into millions.

Jeffrey ‘Jed’ Hanks, 52, was branded a dishonest, manipulative leading player in a drugs conspiracy which funded his high-life has been jailed for 22 years.

Carl Knox, 30, of Ripon Road, Oldham, was also convicted of the drugs conspiracy and was jailed for four years, his first prison sentence, for one courier trip.

The sentences imposed ranged from 3 1/2 years to 22 years. Of the 32 defendants charged, Mark’s client was the only person to be acquitted.

Mr Ford was instructed by Matt Corn of Olliers Solicitors