Parrot Aids Police in Drug Ring Bust

A pet parrot, owned by a suspected crack dealer, has inadvertently assisted police in dismantling a British drug operation, resulting in the arrest of 15 individuals.

Adam Garnett, 35, a key figure in the gang, received a 15-year prison sentence after authorities confiscated his mobile phones, as detailed in a recent press release. According to the Lancashire Constabulary, these devices proved crucial in the investigation.

The investigation revealed that Garnett’s girlfriend, Shannon Hilton, 29, is thought to be part of his inner circle. Police examined her phone and discovered videos of the parrot, which played a significant role in the operation’s unraveling.

Footage showed Hilton teaching the parrot to say “25 to 2!” — a phrase interpreted by police as a code related to drug pricing. The authorities also found a clip of the parrot interacting with money acquired through illegal means.

Interestingly, despite being incarcerated, Garnett managed to orchestrate activities within the organized crime group, maintaining communication with its members, which raised concerns over the security of evidence against him.

Authorities confiscated various drugs, including heroin, crack cocaine, ketamine, and cannabis, along with numerous cell phones.

In total, 15 individuals connected to the drug ring based in Blackpool were arrested and charged. Garnett now faces two counts of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, resulting in an additional 19 years and six months added to his prison term.

Hilton has also been charged with similar offenses, specifically related to Class B drugs, and was sentenced to 12 years in prison. All defendants pleaded guilty at Preston Crown Court.