Fourth Man Jailed Over Sussex Drug Dealing Operation After Weapons Haul

A major Sussex drug dealing network has been dealt another blow after a fourth man was jailed for his role in the operation. Nigel Evendon, 59, from Eastbourne Road in Halland near Lewes, appeared at Lewes Crown Court on August 29, 2025, where he was sentenced to nine and a half years in prison. His […]

A major Sussex drug dealing network has been dealt another blow after a fourth man was jailed for his role in the operation.

Nigel Evendon, 59, from Eastbourne Road in Halland near Lewes, appeared at Lewes Crown Court on August 29, 2025, where he was sentenced to nine and a half years in prison. His conviction follows a lengthy investigation by the Sussex and Surrey Serious and Organised Crime Unit which has already seen three other men jailed earlier this year.

Police Raid and Seizure

• 3kg of ketamine
• Half a kilo of cocaine
• Bags of cannabis and ecstasy (MDMA)
• Four bags of magic mushrooms
• £700 in cash

Officers carried out a search warrant at Evendon’s home in February and uncovered a significant stash of drugs and weapons. Among the haul were:

An array of offensive weapons, including truncheons, knives and firearms

Evendon was arrested at the scene and charged just two days later at Brighton Magistrates’ Court.

Guilty Plea

In March, he admitted being concerned in the supply of Class A and B drugs, possessing firearms without certification, holding multiple offensive weapons, and participating in an organised crime group.

By pleading guilty to all charges, he joined three other men already serving time as part of the same operation, which police say has dismantled a dangerous drugs network stretching across Sussex and beyond.

Judge Hands Down Sentence

When sentencing, the court heard how Evendon played a key role in the distribution of large amounts of illegal substances, while keeping a stockpile of weapons. He will now serve almost a decade behind bars.

Police Reaction

Detective Sergeant Jason Vickers said the case showed the commitment of police to keep communities safe:

“This investigation has seen both a significant amount of illegal drugs and a number of dangerous illicit weapons removed from the streets of Sussex and beyond. Our priority will always be the safety of the public and we will continue to disrupt and dismantle organised crime groups to keep communities across Sussex safe.”

Community Impact

The sentencing marks another success in the ongoing fight against organised crime in the county. Police say the operation highlights the risks posed not only by drugs, but also by the weapons that often come hand in hand with dealing.

With four men now behind bars, Sussex Police believe a major supply chain has been stopped in its tracks, protecting residents from further harm.