A man has been jailed after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply a controlled drug of class A.

Thomas Ives, aged 32 and of Lower Farm Road, East Winch was sentenced to 14 years in prison yesterday (Thursday 24 November 2022) for conspiring to supply cocaine between Friday 1 May 2020 and Thursday 8 October 2020.

The sentencing follows an investigation and prosecution by the French authorities into an organised crime group who had been using Encrochat software to assist with wholesale drugs supply. The investigation yielded a wealth of data including text messages sent between criminals in the UK. The conversations contained discussions surrounding the wholesale supply of cocaine as well as photographs of kilo blocks of a white substance. This information was passed to Norfolk Constabulary as reference had been made to a Kings Lynn postcode. The message had been sent from a device which was later attributed to Thomas Ives.

Ives was arrested at his home address on 8 October 2020 following a series of warrants in the Kings Lynn area as a part of a wider operation. A quantity of cash, vehicles and property has been seized as part of the investigation. He was taken to King’s Lynn Police Investigation Centre for questioning and later remanded into custody.

Ives was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment yesterday (Thursday 24 November 2022) at Norwich Crown Court.

Kings Lynn and Breckland Superintendent Wes Hornigold said: “This sentencing provides a reminder that Norfolk Constabulary is dedicated to tackling drug offences and disrupting those who continue to try and establish drug lines in our local communities.”

“This result will have a significant impact on the operation of drugs lines in Norfolk, disturbing offenders who try to trade drugs within Kings Lynn and the wider county and preventing future offences.”

“This also highlights the dedication and hard work that our officers put into these investigations in order to secure a good outcome.”