TWO people have been been sentenced to more than seven years in prison for drug offences.

Kelly Atcheson, 50, of Sorrell Walk, Haverhill and 41-year-old Leonard Whistlecraft, from Meadowsweet Close, Haverhill were both jailed at Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday, August 12 after admitting to a number of offences.

Atcheson received a four year sentence or possession with intent to supply cocaine, being concerned in the supply of class A drugs and money laundering offences.

Whistlecraft was handed a three year and 246 day sentence for being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs.

It comes after an investigation into a Class A drug supply business headed by Atcheson in Haverhill.

Police issued a number of warrants on June 4, 2020 which were executed at various addresses around Haverhill.

Atcheson and Whistlecraft were both arrested on June 4 and taken to Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre for questioning and was subsequently charged.

DC Philip King from the Serious Crime Disruption Team said: “I am pleased to see a positive outcome where two significant offenders have been brought to justice and a drugs business, which would have undoubtedly effected the local community, has been dismantled.

“This outcome is the result of excellent proactive work from officers working on the Serious Crime Disruption Team.

"It is my hope that the offenders can now receive sufficient support that can allow them to be rehabilitated back into the community in the future so that their future contributions to Haverhill can be more positive.

"The sentences will also give them plenty of time to reflect on the consequences of their criminal activity.

"The supply of drugs and the harm they can cause to vulnerable people is a priority for us and we remain committed to targeting offenders and disrupting criminal activity.”