Eight charged in Exeter following investigation into suspected drug supply network
Eight people have been charged in Exeter following an investigation into a suspected drug supply network in Devon.
Seven men and one woman have been charged as part of a police investigation into the supply of cocaine and ketamine in Devon.
The eight appeared at Exeter Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, November 11. It is understood a further two people have been released under investigation.
Ricky Thorpe, 35, from Norman Mews, Exeter, has been charged with conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs. He has been granted bail.
Daniel Thorpe, 39, from Higher Wear Road, Exeter, was charged with conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs and was granted bail.
Jake Purdy, 32, from Jack Sadler Way, Topsham, Exeter, has been charged with conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs and has been remanded in custody.
Sian Woodford, 37, from Powderham Road, Exeter, was charged with conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs and was granted bail.
Daniel Hine, 35, from Rydal Mews, Windermere Close, Exeter, has been charged with conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs. He has been granted bail.
Jamie Sly, 29, from Somerville Crescent, Exeter, has been charged with conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs and has been granted bail.
Jonathan Gent, 39, from Gordon Road, Topsham, was charged with possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and money laundering offences and was remanded in custody.
Lester Purdy, 73, from Normans Bay, Pevensey, East Sussex, was charged with participating in the activities of an organised crime group. He was remanded in custody.
All eight are scheduled to appear at Exeter Crown Court on December 10, 2026 for a plea and trial preparation hearing.
Detective Chief Inspector Adam Smith of the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit, or SWROCU, who carried out the investigation, said: “These charges represent the culmination of a successful policing partnership between SWROCU and Devon and Cornwall Police and reflects the dedication of officers and staff working together to disrupt those suspected of being involved in the supply of harmful drugs within our communities.
“We will continue to work together to pursue those suspected of profiting from criminal activity across the region.”