Lottery Millionaire and Son Convicted in Multi-Million Pound Fake Drug Operation
A former lottery jackpot winner who amassed £2.4 million in 2010 has been handed a substantial prison sentence for masterminding an elaborate fake prescription drug manufacturing network. John Eric Spiby, aged 80, constructed a sophisticated laboratory near his residence at Clover Cottage in Wigan, which was later expanded to include a second facility in Salford valued at approximately £210,000.
Sophisticated Operation and Significant Harm
Bolton Crown Court heard that the illicit operation produced tablets disguised as diazepam, which were then sold on the streets to individuals unable to obtain the medication through legitimate channels. Judge Nicholas Clarke KC emphasised the considerable harm inflicted upon addicts, describing the pills as causing "untoward harm." The scale of the enterprise necessitated a three-phase electricity supply, costing around £15,000 to power the machinery and packaging equipment used for distribution.
The court was informed that the drugs were sold for approximately 65p per tablet. During a police search of Spiby's property, authorities discovered two firearms along with ammunition, further complicating the criminal charges. The operation's expansion in 2021 led to the establishment of the Albion Unit lab in Salford, significantly increasing production capacity.
Key Associates and Front Company
Associate Lee Drury, 45, utilised his business, NutraInk, as a front to conceal the illegal activities. Between June 2020 and May 2022, the group purchased machinery and ingredients worth £200,000. A pivotal moment occurred on April 2, 2022, when a substantial shipment of drugs, prepared for delivery to a Manchester hotel, was intercepted by police. The vehicle contained over 2.5 million tablets, with an estimated wholesale value of £7 million and a street value soaring to £67 million.
Judge Clarke revealed that the operation had amassed more than 37.5 million tablets over a 12-month period. EncroChat messages exposed discussions among the conspirators regarding raw materials and plans to synthesise drugs to maximise profits. Drury's phone contained the recipe for manufacturing the pills, which he shared in a group chat on March 25, 2022, while boasting about potential earnings.
Family Involvement and Criminal History
John Eric Spiby's son, John Colin Spiby, 37, along with associates Lee Drury and Callum Dorrian, 35, continued the operation despite police interventions. The judge noted that Spiby Senior played a central role in the conspiracy, providing premises, assisting with adaptations, and purchasing machinery. Despite his lottery windfall, Spiby persisted in criminal activities well beyond typical retirement age.
In sentencing Spiby Junior, the judge remarked that he was "guided by his upbringing as the son of a millionaire criminal father." Spiby Senior has a significant prior criminal record, which influenced the severity of his sentence.
Sentencing Details
John Eric Spiby received a prison term of 16 years and 6 months for multiple charges, including conspiracy to produce Class B and C controlled drugs, and conspiracy to possess firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life. His son, John Colin Spiby of Britannia Street, Salford, was jailed for nine years for similar drug-related conspiracies. Lee Drury, residing on Hassal Street, Stalybridge, Tameside, was sentenced to nine years and nine months for his involvement in the production and supply conspiracies.
This case highlights a stark contrast between legitimate wealth acquisition and persistent criminal enterprise, underscoring the severe legal consequences for those involved in large-scale drug manufacturing and distribution.
