Nine individuals involved in a brutal drug turf war in Nottingham have been jailed for over 85 years collectively. The case centers around Tremayne McKenzie, a gang leader fighting for control of drug supply routes in The Meadows area.
McKenzie, 32, confronted rival gang member Paula Usherwood in Mickledon Close, pointing a self-loading pistol at her. However, the weapon failed to discharge, allowing Usherwood to escape with her life. This confrontation occurred shortly after Usherwood was implicated in the murder of someone known to McKenzie in a nearby street.
The violent ambush took place in the early hours of 2 April 2023, after which McKenzie and his associates were linked to the conspiracy to supply heroin and crack cocaine in the area.
The trial, dubbed Operation Haversack, focused on the gang’s involvement in the distribution of Class A drugs and possession of weapons, including firearms. CCTV footage played a significant role in identifying the defendants, who denied conspiring to possess firearms and knives.
Despite their denials, expert analysis of communications, CCTV, and forensic evidence led to guilty verdicts for all involved. McKenzie and his associates were convicted of conspiracy to supply drugs and conspiracy to possess lethal weapons.
The defendants were sentenced on 20 September 2024, with McKenzie receiving a lengthy prison term for his role in the violent drug conspiracy. The case highlights the level of violence and criminal networks operating in Nottingham, with police efforts leading to significant convictions.
