Major Drug Operation Dismantled: £1.5 Million Worth of Drugs Seized

Thirteen Sentenced in Massive Drugs Conspiracy

In a significant crackdown on organised crime, thirteen individuals have been sentenced for their roles in supplying £1.5 million worth of Class A and B drugs into Devon and Cornwall. The sentencing took place over 17th and 18th July at Exeter Crown Court, marking the culmination of a comprehensive investigation by Devon and Cornwall Police.

Operation Musical: The Investigation Unfolds

The operation, named “Operation Musical,” began in June 2021 after officers from the Proactive Unit in Exeter uncovered intelligence about drugs being supplied from the Sidmouth area. This led to months of meticulous tracking and monitoring of phone data, which painted a clear picture of the organised crime group’s activities.

The group trafficked 390kg of cannabis and 4kg of cocaine into the region from London between June 2021 and August 2022. The drugs were then distributed through a network of local dealers across Devon and Cornwall.

Key Players in the Conspiracy

The investigation identified the lead conspirators as Philip Fallows, 36, from Sidmouth, and Jamie Chapman, 33, from Hertfordshire. Philip and Jamie coordinated the supply of drugs from London to Sidmouth, where Philip arranged for their distribution. Trusted couriers within the group facilitated the movement of drugs, including Jamie’s father, Paul Chapman, 67, who regularly transported the illegal substances.

Philip also enlisted the help of Matthew Topham, 31, and Jack Culip, 24, from Camelford, who were key contacts for drug distribution in Cornwall. The group’s operations were sophisticated, using encrypted messaging services to arrange drug deliveries.

Raids and Arrests

On 31 August 2022, officers conducted raids on multiple properties, seizing cash, assets including cars, and drugs. This included 19kg of amphetamine found at Philip’s second address. The group members were arrested and later charged with various drug supply offences.

Sentences Handed Down

Judge Evans sentenced the group to a total of 27 years in prison, with some receiving suspended sentences and community orders. The main conspirators received significant jail time:

• Jamie Chapman, 33, of Old North Road, Hertfordshire: Six years and ten months.
• Matthew Topham, 31, of Willowbank, Camelford: Four years and ten months.
• Jack Culip, 24, of Willowbank, Camelford: Two years and nine months.
• Philip Fallows, 36, of Cotmaton Road, Sidmouth: Seven years and eight months (including additional charges for possession with intent to supply amphetamine).

Specialist financial officers will now seek to recover and confiscate assets gained from these illicit activities under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Network of Associates Sentenced

The group’s network of couriers and distributors also faced justice:

• Kelly Thomas, 42, Butts Road, Ottery St Mary: Two-year and six-month community order for conspiracy to supply cocaine.
• Damien Carnell, 38, of Manstone Avenue, Sidmouth: Two years and seven months.
• Paul Chapman, 67, of South Lawn, Sidford: Three years and three months.
• Zoe Mardon, 49, of Waters Road, Salisbury: 18-month community order.
• Tia Pryor-Howard, 26, of Vaughan Road, Exeter: Suspended sentence of one year and nine months.
• Gary Hedgeland, 31, of SunnyHill, Ottery St Mary: Suspended sentence of one year and eight months.
• Scott Baylis, 44, of Albion Street, Exmouth: 18-month community order.
• Jonathan Keene, 35, of Mill Street, Ottery St Mary: 12-month community order.
• Matthew Harris, 47, of Albion Street, Exmouth: 18-month community order.
• George Fallows, 40, of Mill Street, Ottery St Mary: Due to be sentenced in August.

Police Praise Public Involvement

Detective Inspector Guy Biggar highlighted the importance of public intelligence in dismantling the operation. He urged community members to report any suspicious activity, emphasising the critical role of public information in combatting drug supply networks.

Anyone with information about suspected illegal activities is encouraged to report it to the police online or by calling 101. Anonymous reports can also be made to CrimeStoppers online or by calling 0800 555 111.