Drugs gang jailed for supply of cocaine in East Lancashire

Ten members of a drugs gang involved in the distribution and supply of cocaine in East Lancashire, have been given prison sentences totalling more than 52 years.

Wholesale amounts of cocaine were moved around East Lancashire by the group.

The gang had a hierarchy, with those at the top of the conspiracy involved in running the network, sourcing the drugs and arranging for others to supply to users of the drugs.

They also ensured money owed by those buying drugs was collected.

Paddy Nolan (pictured) was at the head of the group, with him responsible for sourcing multiple kilos of cocaine from outside of Lancashire and bringing it into the county for distribution by other members of the gang.

Evidence was gained during the investigation by the East Targeted Crime Unit into the gang that Nolan had amassed a significant amount of wealth and had access to large amounts of cash, allowing him to live as lavish lifestyle.

Ross Boys was one of Nolan’s most trusted mid-level marketeers and a trusted member of the drugs network.

He supplied mid-level amounts of cocaine to other dealers in East Lancashire.

Darren Mott was the gang’s cash courier, making frequent journeys from Manchester to Lancashire and only staying a short time in Lancashire.

On 14th November 2024, Mott was seen carrying a large rucksack in the company of Nolan and then travelled in Nolan’s car.

Mott then transferred to another car and when that car was stopped by officers, £100,000 cash was found in his rucksack. 

Nolan, Ross Boys and Mott were among those arrested on 2nd December 2024.

More of the gang were arrested later the same month, and others in January 2025.

Appearing at Burnley Crown Court for sentence after pleading guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine, were:

Paddy Nolan, 29, of Hallam Road, Nelson, jailed for 11 years and eight months.

Ross Boys, 29, of Mitella Street Burnley, jailed for seven years and six months.

Darren Mott, 47, of Henley Avenue, Irlam, Manchester, jailed for six years and nine months.

Matthew Waterworth, 34, of Grange Street, Burnley, jailed for five years.

Regan Burnie, 34, of Stanbury Drive, Burnley, jailed for four years and 11 months.

Aaron Cormack, 31, of Eastern Avenue, Burnley, jailed for three years nine months.

Luke Barritt, 37, of Healey Wood Road, Burnley, jailed for three years and eight months.

Leon Canning, 27, of Bowland Avenue, Burnley, jailed for three years and two months.

Jacob Dewhurst, 29, of Greenbrook Road, Burnley, jailed for three years and two months.

Jamie Howes, 29, of St Annes Street, Padiham, jailed for three years and one month.

Chief Insp Sarah Denson of Lancashire Police said: “This gang made significant amounts of money peddling drugs on our streets but despite their best efforts to cover their tracks and to evade capture are now behind bars.

“We will continue to tackle those who bring harm to our communities by dealing in illegal drugs by dismantling this gangs and putting those involved before the courts.

“I’d like to thank the hard work and dedication of the East Targeted Crime Unit who brought down the gang and brought them to justice.”