A FUGITIVE who fled to Spain to avoid justice after being snared in a large-scale drugs investigation has been arrested.

Aaron Stephenson left the North-East in August 2020 – just two days before he was due to be sentenced for conspiring to supply Class A drugs and possessing criminal property.

The 27-year-old, who was living in Widdrington at the time was arrested alongside his cousins Wesley and McKenzie Stephenson and grandparents Dianne Wright and Philip Stephenson in a series of Valentine’s Day raids aimed at disrupting their illicit drugs operation.

In March 2020, the family members were convicted for their respective roles in the conspiracy – but days before they were all due to be sentenced – Aaron Stephenson packed a bag and headed for the beaches of Marbella.

While in hiding, he taunted law enforcement, responding to appeals issued by the Northumbria Police and Crimestoppers – offering cash to anyone who helped him evade arrest.

However, unbeknown to him an international operation was under way, with a squad of officers from the force and the National Crime Agency (NCA) tasked with bringing him back.

With the help of Spanish authorities, Stephenson was arrested on Friday in Alicante. He remains in police custody at this time and a process has begun for his return to the UK.

Chief Inspector Amanda Dumighan, of Northumbria Police, said: “I am really pleased to confirm that Aaron Stephenson has been arrested and will be brought back to the UK in due course.

“Stephenson caused misery across our communities here in the North East and what’s worse, when he was found guilty of his crime and about to be brought to justice, he took off to Spain.

“After fleeing the UK, Stephenson had plenty of opportunities to do the right thing and hand himself in, but instead, he chose to evade capture and live another life in Spain, despite the serious offences hanging over him.

“This has since been brought to an abrupt end thanks to the continued efforts of all those involved in this international operation. I would like to thank all those involved, including our colleagues from the National Crime Agency, whose vital assistance will help us bring Stephenson back and put him before the courts.”

Dave Hucker, from National Crime Agency's International Liaison Network, said: "We are pleased to have been able to support our policing partners in the UK and in Spain with this investigation.

"We remain ready to work closely with partners across the world in the fight against organised crime and make sure criminals have nowhere to hide."

Back in March, the family members were convicted as follows:

- Diane Wright, 61, and Philip Stephenson, 67, both of Woodhorn Road, Newbiggin, were found guilty of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and possessing criminal property.

- Aaron Stephenson, 27, of Chestnut Way, Widdrington, was also found guilty of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and possessing criminal property.

- Wesley Stephenson, 24, of Storey Crescent, Newbiggin, was found guilty of being concerned in the supply of Class A and C drugs.

- Mckenzie Stephenson, 23, of Aidan Grove, Ellington, and his girlfriend Centaine Armstrong, 22, of Widdrington, pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs.

They are all due to be sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court in April.

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