Published: 2024-02-27 by, News Team in the Local news category

Newcastle Drug Gang's Reign of Terror for Local Students Finally Over

A gang of drug dealers operating in Newcastle, led by David Knowles, found themselves facing jail time for their illicit activities, particularly targeting the city's student population. The sordid saga unfolded against the backdrop of three tragic student deaths, casting a shadow over the vibrant city.

Newcastle Crown Court heard how Knowles and his cohorts were apprehended after being caught red-handed selling cocaine to undercover police officers. Their nefarious deeds were laid bare during a tense courtroom trial that shed light on the sinister underbelly of drug trafficking within the community.

Knowles, along with six others, admitted to a range of offenses and were subsequently handed prison sentences ranging from up to five years and five months, with some receiving suspended sentences. Judge Penny Moreland underscored the vulnerability of students, particularly amidst the tumult of coronavirus lockdowns, branding them an "easy target" for the drug ring's exploitation.

Prosecutor Michael Bunch revealed that Northumbria Police had launched a covert operation from February to October 2021, spurred by a concerning surge in drug supply to Newcastle's student population. While the crackdown was triggered by the tragic deaths of three students, there was no direct implication of Knowles and his accomplices in those incidents.

Undercover officers painstakingly documented numerous drug deals orchestrated by Knowles, 27, in the Richardson Road area, a hotspot for student residences. His partner, Charlotte Johnstone, 22, and associates Kieran Cash, 27, and William Campbell, 22, were also implicated in the illicit transactions, amplifying the gravity of their offenses.

Knowles sourced the narcotics from upstream dealers, Hamzah Ali, 27, and Dilawar Tariq, 21, who operated their own drug supply chains within the Newcastle vicinity. Tariq's re-arrest, following a brief release, further underscored the pervasive nature of the drug trade within student communities.

In mitigation, Knowles' defense counsel highlighted his remorse and troubled upbringing marred by adversity and criminal influences. Similarly, Cash's legal representation shed light on his coercion into drug dealing due to mounting debts and threats from Knowles.

The sentencing underscored the severity of the offenses, with six defendants facing varying prison terms for their involvement in the conspiracy to supply Class A drugs. Knowles' additional conviction for possessing an illegally powerful air rifle, and Tariq and Ali's charges for drug possession and supply, further underscored the depth of their criminal enterprise.

Amidst the courtroom drama and legal wrangling, the case serves as a sobering reminder of the perils of drug trafficking and the profound impact it can have on communities, particularly the vulnerable student population. As Newcastle grapples with the aftermath of this shocking revelation, efforts to combat drug-related crime and safeguard the city's youth must remain steadfast and unwavering.

Curious to find out more? For more information about Gang's drug ring targets Newcastle students, leads to deaths; ringleaders jailed after undercover sting exposes city's dark drug underworld., you can get details online here.

Back To Main News & Articles List...