Man from Greater Manchester jailed for drug supply offences

Detectives from the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (NWROCU) welcome the sentencing of a man from Greater Manchester for drug offences.

James Bury, 39, from Victoria Street, Westhoughton, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and possession with intent to supply controlled drugs. He was jailed for 10 years and six months at Preston Crown Court on Tuesday 10 June.

Back in October 2024, officers launched an investigation into the supply of controlled drugs via the UK postal network. Bury was identified as the sender of four parcels containing over 2KG of cocaine. These parcels were intercepted by Border Force authorities in Northern Ireland.

Bury was arrested on 19 December 2024 at his home address. Officers conduced a search of the premises as well as rented business premises in Burnley, Lancashire. They seized additional quantities of Class A, Class B and Class C drugs, linking Bury to the drug supply operation.

Detective Sergeant Jamie Illingworth from the NWROCU Operations team said:

“This investigation is an excellent example of multi-agency work. We want to thank Border Force, Police Service of North Ireland, and the Crown Prosecution Service for their support throughout this investigation.

“James Bury believed he could exploit the postal system to courier drugs across the UK. Today’s sentence sends a clear message, if you’re involved in the supply of Class A drugs, we will identify you, arrest you and bring you to justice.

“Drugs cause untold harm to our communities, and we remain committed to targeting those who profit from this misery.”