Cobleys’ emergency team was instructed during the pre-dawn arrests and attended police stations across Cheshire and Merseyside to advise a number of detainees throughout interviews under caution. We ensured interview strategies were tailored to the limited disclosure available, preserved clients’ legal rights, and coordinated with family members regarding welfare and property issues.

This morning, our court department provided seamless continuity of representation at Chester Magistrates’ Court for the first appearances, giving clear advice on the allegations, evidential position and next procedural steps. Where appropriate, we advanced submissions on charge, remand and directions, and set immediate case-management plans in motion.

The aim: protect our clients’ position at the earliest stage and ensure the case proceeds on a fair, properly disclosed footing.

Who has been charged

The following defendants have been charged and remanded in custody to appear at Chester Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 10 November:

• Colin Jones, 38, of Parklands, Widnes
  Two counts of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs (cocaine); two counts of conspiracy to supply Class B drugs (cannabis); one count of conspiracy to supply Class B drugs (amphetamine); two counts of possession of criminal property; one count of conspiracy to possess ammunition without a firearms certificate; two counts of assisting the commission of an offence.

• Kevin Martindale, 40, of Grove Street, Widnes
  Conspiracy to supply Class A drugs (cocaine); conspiracy to supply Class B drugs (cannabis); two counts of possession of criminal property.

• Leon Phillips, 43, of Liebig Court, Widnes
  Conspiracy to supply Class A drugs (cocaine); possession with intent to supply Class A drugs (MDMA); possession of criminal property.

• Jack Jones, 28, of Melville Close, Widnes
  Conspiracy to supply Class A drugs (cocaine); conspiracy to supply Class B drugs (cannabis).

• Colin Dolman, 52, of Stewards Avenue, Widnes
  Possession with intent to supply Class A drugs (cocaine); being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs (cocaine).

• Brandon McCann, 23, of Milton Avenue, Widnes
  Conspiracy to supply Class A drugs (cocaine); possession of criminal property.

• Kevin Smith, 37, of Hardy Street, Garston
  Conspiracy to supply Class A drugs (cocaine).

Police statement and investigation context

According to the force, the operation targeted an established organised crime group believed to be operating in and around Widnes. Detectives say the coordinated enforcement is intended to protect vulnerable people, reduce harm linked to Class A supply and disrupt wider criminal activity, including the movement of ammunition. A 35-year-old woman and a 51-year-old man arrested during the warrants have been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

What happens next

At this stage, the charges are allegations and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. Further hearings will address disclosure, case directions and any applications that may be made. Cobleys will continue to advise clients through the case-building phase, liaising with the CPS on evidence and pursuing appropriate expert and digital disclosure where necessary.