A jailed organised crime group (OCG) boss, who directed couriers supplying drugs to locations across the UK from his cell, has been sentenced to a further seven years.

On 2 May, HMP Oakwood prisoner, Nathan Henshall, 33, was sentenced at Stafford Crown Court alongside his 'runner', Steven Howells, 39, from Fenton.

Henshall pleaded guilty to conspiring to supply a class A controlled drug (cocaine).

He was sentenced to seven years and four months, consecutive to the sentence he is already serving between February and March 2020.

When Henshall was stopped on the M6, police found 'Christmas presents' containing cannabis (Staffordshire Police).

Howell was given a nine-month sentence, suspended for 18-months, after he admitted possession with intent to supply a class B drug (cannabis) and acquiring, using or possessing criminal property. He was also ordered to carry out 300 hours of unpaid work.

During his time in prison Henshall had access to a mobile phone, which he used to 'control' Howells.

The phone was discovered in December 2020 and revealed that Henshall had continued to direct and advise Howells whilst he was in prison.

Howells was stopped by officers as he travelled northbound on the M6 in Staffordshire having made a return trip to Dorset in November 2020.

When officers searched the boot they found two 'Christmas presents' containing £8,000 to £10,000 worth of cannabis. A third package also wrapped in festive paper had around £65,000 in cash.

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