A man who won a £2.4 million jackpot kept a massive criminal operation hidden, which was described as being on an industrial scale.

John Eric Spiby, aged 80, was revealed to have overseen a multimillion-pound drug syndicate operating from his tranquil rural residence near Wigan, as disclosed by the jury at Bolton Crown Court. Despite denying involvement in the £288 million drug scheme, he was found guilty of conspiracy to produce and supply class C drugs.

Spiby, who struck lottery gold in 2010, played a significant role in the distribution of pills resembling diazepam, a medication used for anxiety, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal. The court learned that Spiby facilitated the setup and acquisition of costly machinery for drug production.

The lotto winner was part of a group of four, including his son John Colin Spiby, 37, identified as members of an organized criminal network engaged in large-scale drug manufacturing and firearm distribution.

Additional members Lee Derury, 45, and Callum Dorian, 35, were also sentenced. During a group chat, Spiby Jr boasted about their wealth, stating, “Elon [Musk] and Jeff [Bezos] best watch their backs.” The total value of the drugs was estimated at £288 million.

“Despite your lottery win, you persisted in criminal activities well beyond typical retirement age,” remarked Judge Clarke KC to Spiby during sentencing, as reported by The Guardian. Spiby faced further charges of firearms possession, ammunition possession, and perverting the course of justice, receiving a sentence of 16 years and six months.

Adam Kent KC, representing Spiby Sr, argued that Dorian was the main figure in the operation and the director of the drug empire. According to Kent, Dorian referred to Spiby Sr as “the guy whose place we use is a millionaire.”

Kent also highlighted the ancient revolvers found at Spiby’s residence, dating back to the First World War era. The judge emphasized the magnitude of the drug operation during the trial.

The judge concluded that this was the “largest drug production operation of its kind ever uncovered by law enforcement.” Judge Clarke pointed out the central role played by Spiby Sr in the operation, highlighting his seniority in both name and function.

Drury received a prison sentence of nine years and nine months, while Spiby Jr was handed a nine-year term. Dorian was sentenced to 12 years in prison in 2024.

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