A prisoner who conspired to flood cocaine and cannabis into the North East has sentenced to a further two decades behind bars.

Michael Ferry communicated with co-conspirators via an ‘EncroChat’ encrypted mobile device to co-ordinate the multi-kilo deliveries of the Class A and Class B substances into the region.

Evidence gathered by specialist officers with Northumbria Police working as part of Operation Venetic uncovered the plot between March 2020 and May of the same year.

The investigation found Ferry - who was serving a 45-month sentence at HMP Northumberland for a violent disorder offence committed in December 2016 – played a part in the supply of 53 kilos of cocaine and at least 17 kilos of cannabis.(Image: Northumbria Police)

The 33-year-old, previously of Wimslow Close, Wallsend, also outlined his intention to assume control of the illicit operation upon his release from prison.

Ferry was further arrested in November 2020, and pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to supply cocaine and conspiracy to supply cannabis at Newcastle Crown Court earlier this month.

On Tuesday, he was sentenced to 22 years and six months’ imprisonment.

Following Ferry’s sentencing, Detective Chief Inspector Marc Michael, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is a superb result following a lengthy and complex investigation, and I am delighted the tireless work from our officers has left Ferry with no choice but to admit his guilt. Ferry is a prominent and well-connected figure who holds significant standing within an organised crime group.

“He was fully aware of the illegalities of his actions, and sought to profit from the trade of a hugely destructive and addictive substance in our communities.

“Ferry believed he was above the law through his use of an encrypted device, but this latest case proves there is no hiding place – our dedicated officers will find you and bring you before the courts to face justice.”

Det Ch Insp Michael added: “We will not relent in our commitment to clamping down on organised criminal activity as part of the ongoing Operation Sentinel.

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“Members of the public can continue to assist us in apprehending offenders such as Ferry by providing information to us, reporting any suspicious activity or concerns to us.”

Anyone with information should send Northumbria Police a DM on social media, use the live chat on the Force website or complete a crime update form at www.northumbria.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/ For those who are unable to contact the Force those ways, call 101.