Two Glasgow-based men have been jailed for operating a significant Class A drug ring across Aberdeen, Dundee, Fife, and Kinross.
Following a six-week trial at the High Court in Glasgow, James Paterson, 34, was found guilty of supplying cocaine and heroin between December 2015 and December 2016. He was also convicted of money laundering and orchestrating others to move, alter, and sell cocaine on his behalf while concealing the proceeds.
Ian Sweeney, 51, was found guilty of using technology to evade police surveillance for Paterson between September and November 2016.
On Monday, 20 March 2023, Paterson was sentenced to 14 years in prison, while Sweeney received a five-year sentence at the same court.
The police operation leading to Paterson’s arrest on 16 December 2016 resulted in the seizure of cocaine and heroin with a street value of £1.3 million, along with £55,000 in cash linked to their criminal enterprise.
Detective Inspector Julia Ogilvie of Police Scotland’s Organised Crime Unit commented, “Lives and communities are ruined by drugs and these men had no thought for the misery they caused. They were intimidating and greedy, caring for no one but themselves. Now, following a long investigation, they’ve been brought to justice.”
She added, “I want to pay tribute to the hard work of the investigation team that took these criminals off our streets. Police Scotland is committed to fighting this crime. We urge the public to help by reporting any drug supply information via 101. If you wish to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
