Sunderland dealer who tried to supply drugs across the country jailed
A member of a criminal network who sought to supply drugs across the country has been jailed.
Christopher Alexander was brought to justice after the illicit scheme was uncovered by officers investigating as part of Operation Venetic.
Alexander communicated via an “EncroChat” encrypted mobile device to co-ordinate dealing large quantities of cocaine throughout the Force area.
Evidence gathered by officers uncovered the plot between March and June 2020.
They discovered that the 46-year-old played a key role in the network – organising the buying and selling of 10kg of cocaine to the value of £400,000.
Alexander was detained by Spanish authorities in September 2022 an extradited back to the UK in May 2023 where he was arrested and charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs.
On Wednesday October 22, Alexander of Offerton Lane in Houghton, Sunderland, pleaded guilty at Newcastle Crown Court.
On Friday (February 27) he appeared at the same court where he was sentenced to 14 years and 10 months behind bars.
Speaking after sentencing, Detective Chief Inspector Marc Michael, of Northumbria Police, said: “Cocaine is an incredibly addictive and destructive substance which has absolutely no place in any of our communities.
“Organised crime of this nature brings with it violence, exploitation and harm which will not be tolerated.
“Alexander knew the damaging consequences of his actions yet believed he was above the law and sought to profit from the trade of the drug - albeit his drug supply network was primarily in the UK he had the means and capability to successfully manage his criminal enterprise from overseas.
“He thought by being oversees he could evade law enforcement and face zero consequences for his actions.
“He attempted to mask his offending through the use of encrypted messaging, but the dedication and teamwork of our officers ultimately left him with no choice but to admit his guilt.”
Det Ch Insp Michael added: “The North East is no safe haven for drug dealers, and this sentencing is the latest positive result in our ongoing clampdown on organised crime through Operation Sentinel.
“We would urge members of the public to continue to support us by reporting any concerns over criminality they may have – no matter how insignificant it might seem.”
Anyone with information about suspected criminality can get in touch with us by sending a direct message on social media, visiting the live chat on our website or by going to the ‘Report’ section of the website.
For those who are unable to contact the Force those ways, call 101.