A South Ockendon man has been sentenced to prison after admitting involvement in the supply of Class A and Class B drugs. Luke Clements, aged 36 and of Araglen Avenue, appeared at Basildon Crown Court on Monday, 21 July, where he pleaded guilty to two charges relating to the distribution of cocaine and cannabis.
Sentence handed down at Basildon Crown Court
Judge John Bristow imposed a total custodial term of three-and-a-half years. The judge ordered consecutive and concurrent custodial periods that cumulatively equate to the 42-month term for the most serious offence. A statutory victim surcharge of £228 was also imposed and the drugs seized will be destroyed.
| Offence | Sentence |
|---|---|
| Supply of a Class A drug (cocaine) | 42 months |
| Supply of a Class B drug (cannabis) | 12 months (concurrent) |
| Total custodial term | 3½ years |
Local impact and context
The conviction covers activity between July and November 2025. Drug supply convictions at a local level can have multiple consequences for communities, including increased risk of associated anti-social behaviour and harm to vulnerable people. Sentencing in cases of this nature aims both to punish individuals involved in the drug trade and to deter others who may be supplying illegal substances within Thurrock.
- Defendant: Luke Clements, 36, Araglen Avenue, South Ockendon
- Court: Basildon Crown Court
- Period of offending: July–November 2025
Local residents concerned about drugs or suspicious activity are encouraged to report information to Essex Police. Timely information from the public can assist ongoing policing and safeguarding efforts.
This report is based on the sentencing hearing and details released following the court appearance.
