Parrot Snitches on Prison-Run Drug Gang—Literally Squawks Their Scheme

In a jaw-dropping twist, Lancashire Police uncovered a major drug operation led from behind bars when an unlikely witness—the gang’s pet parrot—spoke too much.

The parrot, taught to mimic a common drug deal phrase while being filmed making off with cash, became a critical piece of evidence that cracked the case wide open.

Behind Bars but Pulling Strings

From February 2023 to July 2024, 35‑year-old inmate Adam Garnett ran a drug ring in Blackpool through smuggled cell phones and Wi‑Fi routers stashed in his prison cell.

With communications timed and price lists drawn up, he coordinated multiple dealers to distribute heroin, crack cocaine, ketamine, and cannabis across the area.

Mango—The Feathered Snitch

During home raids on suspected associates, investigators seized mobile phones packed with incriminating footage. On one video, the gang member’s parrot—charmingly named Mango—squawked, “two for 25,” a slang term for crack-cocaine pricing, while playing with bundles of cash.

The clip was shot in front of a child, adding to its gravity as court evidence.

The Evidence Stacking Up

Beyond the parrot’s infamous cameo, investigators compiled a double whammy of evidence: phone records, videos showing kilogram blocks of cocaine, cash stunts, and even gang members rapping about their criminal exploits.

Another accomplice’s phone revealed price charts and county lines operation notes, solidifying charges of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.

Sentencing That Leaves No Room for Parole

In total, 15 members of the operation were convicted. Garnett received 19 years and six months added to his existing sentence, effectively locking him up for life.

Shannon Hilton, who filmed the parrot, was sentenced to 12 years, while another associate, Dalbir Sandhu, received 10 years. Two others failed to appear in court and are now wanted by authorities.

Why the Parrot Became the Party Pooper

This case highlights how even the most absurd details—in this instance, a bird blurting out drug-speak—can unravel sophisticated criminal operations.

It’s a bizarre reminder that crime—and unintended witnesses—come in many forms. In court, judges reportedly noted that the parrot’s video “didn’t help” the defendant—or anyone involved in that business.

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