Sinead Lavelle, 34, of Offmore Road, Kidderminster, was sentenced on Friday 10 June at Hereford Crown Court after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply cocaine. The conviction followed a four-week trial that concluded last December.
Lavelle’s partner, Gareth Pegler, from Saxon Way, Wychbold, was among four men convicted alongside her. The others include Mighele Massey of Stourbridge Road, Dudley; Karl Browning of Hurcott Road, Kidderminster; and Darren Pegler from Coronation Way, Kidderminster. Collectively, the group received over 26 years of imprisonment for their roles in the drug operation.
His Honour Judge Martin Jackson criticised Lavelle’s involvement in the case, stating, “You stayed and rekindled a relationship with a partner who is a professional criminal, so there has to be a price to pay.” Despite Lavelle’s claims of ignorance, the judge said she was “turning a blind eye,” referencing her previous comment about Gareth Pegler: “he does what he does.”
Lavelle’s participation in the conspiracy included collecting drugs, paying associates, and being present during drug runs, even when her children were nearby. The judge remarked, “Wives and partners frequently try to hide behind the relationship, claiming ignorance to avoid prosecution, as Sinead Lavelle did in this case.” He added, “She helped with the business and reaped the benefits of both the profits and the lifestyle. As a result, her children now face the harsh reality of both parents serving prison sentences.”
West Mercia Police issued a strong warning to anyone involved in criminal activity or who turns a blind eye to the profits of crime. The judge urged, “Before you consider the consequences, ask yourself if it is really worth it.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
