Two Knowsley have been sentenced today for conspiring to supply and distribute Class A and B drugs in the Merseyside area.
As part of the ongoing Operation Venetic, on 17 June this year, David Pinnington, 39, (above left) was arrested at his home in Kirkby after being identified as the user of the Encrochat ‘loftyhail’ handle.
On the same day, David Blackburn, 29, (above right) was arrested at his home in Kirkby after being identified as the user of the ‘super.biking’ handle.
Both individuals are believed to have worked together and with others to supply Class A drugs (cocaine and heroin) and Class B drugs (cannabis) across the Merseyside area.
Pinnington and Blackburn pleaded guilty to the drug conspiracy offences.
During a sentencing hearing at Liverpool Crown Court, Pinnington was jailed for nine years and four months and Blackburn was jailed for 11 years.
Detective Inspector Paul McVeigh said, “These two men are the latest to be put behind bars as part of our ongoing investigation into the supply of Class A and B drugs on Merseyside.
“Not only have we disrupted a chain of supply we have also removed a huge supply of drugs destined for our streets and further afield.
“We have considerable success in arresting and convicting people and this work will continue.
“I would ask anyone who has any information about who is supplying or selling drugs in their area to contact us so we can take action.”
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