Rob Kennedy

'Feared and ruthless' Michael Ferry ran his cocaine empire from prison using an Encrochat device

Youssef Wynne, John Wandless, Kenneth Fawcett and Josh Hawthorn are facing life sentences for murdering Andrew Foster during a series of ammonia attacks in Gateshead and South Tyneside

A drugs boss, who ran a lucrative cocaine empire from behind bars that was raking in "footballers wages", was told: "You are at the top in the North East and you are only in second gear".

Ben Hughes, of Gateshead, is alleged to have murdered Laura Robson in Gateshead

Feared Tyneside crime boss Michael Ferry is facing decades more behind bars after it was discovered he was running a massive drug-dealing operation from the clink

Michael Ferry, 33, has been told he faces a sentence "north of 20 years" after admitting his part in the conspiracy to sell the class A drug on a commercial scale

Youssef Wynne, Kenneth Fawcett, John Wandless and Josh Hawthorn have been jailed for life at Newcastle Crown Court

A gang of four murderers must serve at least 118 years behind bars for killing Andrew Foster during a spate of chemical attacks.

Victim impact statements from the loved ones of murdered Andrew Foster and a woman who lost an eye laid bare the horrific consequences of a series of ammonia attacks

A gang who murdered and maimed to protect and enforce their drugs business left a trail of pain and suffering.