MEN involved in a network of stolen goods across a Southampton community have been sentenced for their roles in organised crime across the city.

Four men have been dealt with by the courts following a series of police raids in the city in March this year.

Among those arrested by officers investigating burglaries, thefts, drugs offences and the handling of stolen goods was Christopher Spear who is now starting a six year jail term.

Spear, 24, of Wimpson Lane in Millbrook, received the largest sentence after pleading guilty to ten offences including supplying drugs, stealing a car, burglary and handling stolen goods.

Craig Ham, 22, of Evenlode Road, Southampton, was also sent down for two years for three charges of assisting in the disposal of stolen goods.

As previously reported, dozens of officers were involved in executing 21 warrants at homes and properties across the city during two days in March this year.

The operation was the culmination of work by officers alongside the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit.

Also sentenced for their roles was Karl Lacey, 19, of Totland Close, Southampton, for assisting in the disposal of stolen goods, supplying a class B drug and offering to supply a class B drug. He was handed a 14 month jail term, suspended for two years.

John Huntley, 27, of William Macleod Way, Southampton, received an 18-month prison sentence suspended for two years for assisting in the disposal of stolen goods.

He was ordered to do 150 hours unpaid work, given 12 months probation and subject to a six month curfew.

Daily Echo: Craig Ham

Jamie Dixon, 20, of Wadhurst Gardens, Southampton, was also guilty of assisting in the disposal of stolen goods and handed six months in prison, suspended for two years. He will be subject to a drug rehabilitation requirement.

A further 16 people charged in connection with the operation are still waiting to be dealt with at court.

Southampton’s Police Commander James Fulton said: "It’s often the case that a relatively small number of people are responsible for a large number of crimes. Operation Cordon has been used to target some of these individuals.

"We are pleased with the results of the operation to date and the recent sentencing of Christopher Spear.

"It sends out a clear message that if you busy yourself committing crimes in our city, expect us to target you, when caught there is a good chance you will go to prison.

"The results of this and other linked operations are helping, in partnership with our communities, to make Southampton a safer city.”