Two men sentenced following investigation into east Belfast UVF activities

Two men have been sentenced in Belfast following an investigation by the Paramilitary Crime Task Force into the activities of the east Belfast UVF.

James McGrogan and Christopher Cullen were both convicted on Thursday 18th April, for a number of drug-related offences.

Both had previously entered guilty please to the offences of possession of a Class A controlled drug, possession of a Class A controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of a Class C controlled drug, and possession of a Class C controlled drug with intent to supply.

James McGrogan was sentenced to four years in prison and was ordered to serve half of his sentence in custody and half on licence. Christopher Cullen was sentenced to three years in prison, and will also serve half of his sentence in custody and the remainder on Licence.

Detective Sergeant Crothers from the Paramilitary Crime Task Force said: “The fact that both men were brought before the court offers reassurance that we, along with partner organisations, remain committed to disrupting the activities of those involved with criminal and drug-related activity.

“This remains a priority for the Paramilitary Crime Task Force (PCTF) and we will continue to robustly and proactively pursue those who are intent on damaging our communities."