Drugs gang ran huge operation

A “SOPHISTICATED” gang managed a large-scale drugs operation trading multiple kilos of cannabis a month during lockdown.

The group of five men were discovered by police after officers executed a drugs warrant at the Newport address of “ringleader” Adam Goldsmith.

There officers discovered more than £35,000 in cash, mobile phones, a Rolex watch and a quantity of cannabis. Examination of Goldsmith’s mobile phones revealed the identities of those working below him, a sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court heard yesterday. Police also discovered Goldsmith had the licence plate details of undercover police cars.

The court heard the gang were “sophisticated” and were struggling to meet demand by the closing stages of their criminal activity.

Prosecutor Susan Ferrier said the gang first came to light after officers executed a warrant at an address in Ailesbury Street, Newport, on May 4 this year. Goldmith, 27, was at the property along with his children. Police found more than £35,000 in cash, mobile phones, a Rolex watch with a receipt, and three bags of cannabis.

Ms Ferrier said there was evidence that Goldsmith had been managing his operation for about six months before the bust. His mobile phone revealed the identities of four other men who were involved. They were also sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court yesterday.

Ms Ferrier said Jordan Harding and Lewis Gould were identified early on in the investigation and a warrant was executed at their respective addresses on May 24. She said Harding’s phone was seized by police who found evidence of the two arguing over money.

Goldsmith admitted possession of criminal property and being concerned in the supply of cannabis. He was sentenced to four and a half years in prison. He will serve at least half in prison before being released on licence.

Harding, of Vermeer Crescent, Newport, admitted being concerned in the supply of cannabis. He was jailed for 24 months, suspended for 24 months. He must also complete 250 hours of unpaid work.

Jamie Norman, 31, of Clist Road, Bettws, Newport, admitted one count of being concerned in the supply of cannabis. He was given 12 months, suspended for 18 months. He must also complete 250 hours unpaid work.

Gould, 26, of Harrow Close, Caerleon, admitted one count of being concerned in the supply of cannabis. He was jailed for two years, suspended for two years. He must complete 300 hours of unpaid work and a curfew was imposed. Gould must also complete 20 sessions of a rehabilitation activity requirement.

Andrew Rumsey, 27, of Walford Davies Drive, Newport, admitted one count of being concerned in the supply of cannabis. He was jailed for 12 months, suspended for 18 months. He must also complete 300 hours of unpaid work and 20 sessions of rehabilitation activity requirement.