Court jails drugs ring brothers

Kevin Moore, left, and Colin Moore both had cash and drugs on them.

Two Tyneside brothers have been each sentenced to nine years in prison for conspiracy to supply class A drugs.

Colin Moore, 58, and Kevin Moore, 55, were convicted following a week-long trial at Newcastle Crown Court.

During the police operation, more than one kilo of class A drugs was recovered from the men's homes, along with two bags containing £96,000 in cash.

Police will make an application for the funds to be made available for policing operations in North Tyneside.

The Northumbria Police operation followed information given to officers that Colin Moore was supplying large quantities of heroin and cocaine to street dealers in Wallsend, on Tyneside.

DNA evidence

When detained by officers, he was found in possession of heroin, cocaine and £2,000 cash.

Fingerprint and DNA evidence linked both brothers to the seized items.

The judge ordered a confiscation hearing for the £96,000 and £21,00 in Colin Moore's bank account.

Detective Chief Inspector Frank Gallop, of North Tyneside area command, said: "The new powers to seize assets have resulted in a double punishment with both men not only receiving substantial custodial sentences but also losing money they had accumulated through their crime.

"This was a very satisfying result and sends a clear message to those who deal in the misery of drugs in North Tyneside."