Man jailed for mass steroid production

A man who used three separate sites in East Sussex to produce, store and supply anabolic steroids has been jailed. 

Paul Veness, 43, was stopped in his Lamborghini Urus by officers in Eastbourne on 28 September 2023, and arrested on suspicion of money laundering.

He was wearing a Rolex watch worth approximately £34,000, and had £4,000 cash and a diamond ring worth £25,000 in the vehicle.

The same day, police executed search warrants at three separate sites linked to Veness – the farm he owned and lived at in Hailsham Road, Polegate; a second address he owned in West Terrace, Eastbourne; and a storage container in his name in Edison Road, Eastbourne.

A significant quantity of pills and clear bottles containing liquid – found to be anabolic steroids and other prescription medication – were discovered, as well as comprehensive production equipment and associated packaging.

These items were seized, along with the Lamborghini, Rolex, diamond ring and cash totalling more than £300,000, as an investigation was carried out.

Veness was subsequently arrested and charged with the production of anabolic steroids; possession with intent to supply a controlled Class C drug; being concerned in the supply of a Class C drug; and acquiring / using / possessing criminal property.

He pleaded guilty to all offences, and at Lewes Crown Court on 14 October he was sentenced to 38 months’ imprisonment.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Jim Austin, said: “The properties associated with Veness were clearly adapted to produce and supply illegal drugs in order to fund his lavish lifestyle. His high value possessions – including super car, luxury watch and designer clothing – suggest he generated significant income from his criminality.

“This case demonstrates that we will continue to investigate illegal drug supply and money laundering offences, and anyone caught committing offences can expect to face the full force of the law.

“I’d like to thank the numerous staff and officers involved in this complex investigation, including those from the Tactical Enforcement Unit and Specialist Enforcement Unit, Digital Investigation Support Unit, Economic Crime Unit, and Community Investigations Team. While this is a positive result, our work into further alleged offences in this case continues.”

The items seized will be subject to Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) hearings in due course.

Four further suspects were arrested in connection with the investigation and remain on bail, pending further enquiries.