On 4/8, Blackpool Police began a social media post with the question: "What's the most talented thing your pet can do? Sit? Shake hands? Or talk?".
They then revealed a parrot had been taught by its owner to say, "Two bags for 25 cents, two bags for 25 cents," which is slang used by organized crime groups. "That's probably not a phrase you want your parrot to utter when the police come knocking," the police joked.
Last month, during a raid on a suspect's house, police found the video of this talking parrot, which led to the seizure of a large quantity of heroin and cocaine.
Another clip showed the parrot and its owner on a video call with an inmate. Further investigation revealed the inmate to be 35-year-old Adam Garnett, serving a 15-year sentence for another crime. He was accused of running this drug ring from prison between February 2023 and July 2024.
Returning to the prison to search Garnett's cell, police found a smuggled cell phone and wifi router under his pillow, along with the "funny" videos of Mango the parrot, their unwitting informant.
Lancashire Police said an examination of the phone revealed Garnett had recorded his transactions, including a price list and deals. Other evidence included video call logs between Hilton and Garnett, and clips showing kilos of cocaine, with music including the lyrics "cocaine".
Police said that despite being in prison, Garnett maintained contact with most members of the gang he controlled.
A total of 15 people were arrested and tried at Preston Crown Court last week. They were charged with drug trafficking and received a combined 103-year sentence. Garnett was sentenced to 19 years and six months, while his girlfriend received a 12-year sentence. The current whereabouts and caretaker of the parrot remain unknown.
Hai Thu (People)
