Richard Brookhouse and Diane: A Downfall in the North West's Criminal History

Richard Brookhouse, a notorious drugs kingpin, masterminded a £100m cocaine trafficking operation while on day release from prison. His wife, Diane, funded their extravagant lifestyle with their criminal gains, indulging in cosmetic treatments and luxury items.

Serving a 22-year sentence for drug importation, Brookhouse used his day release from HMP Kirkham to coordinate drug distribution with gangs from Manchester and Liverpool, smuggling around half a ton of cocaine into the UK disguised as fishing trips from France.

Diane acted as Brookhouse's "business assistant", living a lavish lifestyle on the proceeds of her husband's criminal enterprise, which included expensive salon treatments and luxury goods.

In April 2013, detectives from the regional organized crime unit, suspicious of Brookhouse’s activities, captured key figures involved in a significant drug seizure.

Day Release and Meetings with Criminals

Initially imprisoned in 2003, Brookhouse had earned day release by 2012, during which he resumed contact with drug dealers, including known criminals from Liverpool and Manchester.

Under operation codenamed Redbank, police began investigating Brookhouse after receiving tips about his meetings with drug dealers, highlighting his attempts to regain his influence in the drug trade.

Detective Superintendent Jason Hudson stated that Brookhouse used his prison reputation to leverage respect and advantage over gang members.

Brookhouse was pivotal in coordinating drug transporters and suppliers, tapping into high-level contacts for illicit operations.

The Criminal Network and ‘Fishing Trips’

Along with Brookhouse, Carl Wall, an ex-boxer with a history of violence, played a significant role in the operation. His prior convictions underscored his existing criminality.

Other gang members included Gerrard Mooney, known for large drug transactions, and Darren Williams, who claimed to earn his income from counterfeit goods but was identified as a significant drug dealer.

In March 2013, police observed Paul and Steven Harwood, who transported drugs disguised as part of a fishing trip to France, culminating in the seizure of large quantities of cocaine and heroin.

Their operations reportedly included multiple trips that concealed drug imports under the guise of recreational activities, with estimates suggesting over 500kg of cocaine was smuggled into the UK.

Diane's Lavish Lifestyle and Criminal Involvement

While Brookhouse was incarcerated, Diane also lived lavishly, supporting herself with state benefits while spending significant amounts on luxury and cosmetic treatments.

Despite denying knowledge of her husband's crimes, prosecutors argued she actively aided him in orchestrating meetings with drug dealers, presenting a façade of ignorance.

Ultimately, the couple's criminal activity was uncovered, revealing extensive cooperation within the gang, leading to arrests and convictions.

Brookhouse received a 20-year sentence, while Diane was sentenced to 14 years for her involvement. The total sentences for all gang members amounted to 247 years, illustrating the extensive network involved in their operations.

Following their convictions, Brookhouse faced a proceeds of crime application, indicating £450,000 of his estimated £21m wealth was deemed collectible by authorities.