According to articles from The Sun, elderly women are increasingly becoming key figures in organized crime, successfully managing drug empires and controlling their families. These grandmothers use their status to remain unnoticed by the police, making them some of the most dangerous people in the criminal world.
Criminologists noted that grandmother gangsters often lead family operations, where their requests are seen as obligations rather than orders. Refusing to fulfill a request can be perceived as betrayal. For instance, 65-year-old Deborah managed a gang that sold cocaine worth £80 million over eight months before her arrest. This story highlights that she is not unique and that such women pose a threat to the safety of the UK and other countries.
From a respectable resident managing a heroin empire to a cat lover with a cocaine network, women are taking on increasingly prominent roles in criminal structures. They use their femininity and social roles to remain unnoticed.
The Europol report on serious and organized crime in the EU for 2025 notes that the role of women in these networks is becoming increasingly significant.
Criminologist Alex Iszatt explained that women have always been part of organized crime, but their influence has gone unnoticed. Older women often play a central role in family crime groups, their authority based on control over family loyalty and shared secrets.
Deborah Mason, nicknamed the "Queen Bee," involved her relatives in drug trafficking, earning significant income and living lavishly. She was arrested after her criminal activities were uncovered, leading to the conviction of her gang.
Another notable figure is Morag Yorston, who led a gang distributing heroin and cocaine in Dundee. After her arrest, she was sentenced to a lengthy prison term, but her actions left a significant mark in the criminal environment.
Chief Inspector Scott Fotheringham noted that the investigation against Yorston was complex and lengthy, and she played a key role in organized criminal activity.
Alex Iszatt also emphasizes that as women age, they become less noticeable to law enforcement, allowing them to operate more freely. This creates conditions for managing large cash flows and maintaining control over the business.
Margaret Heaney, known as "Big Megs," was both a respected figure and a drug dealer, earning significant profits from heroin sales. She engaged in this activity alongside her family and was sentenced to a long term.
The motivation of such women is not always driven by a thirst for money. Some act out of necessity to protect their families or to take on new roles when traditional leaders go to prison or die.
"Mafia Godmothers"
Assunta Maresca, known as "Pupetta," became the first "godmother" of the Camorra after avenging her husband's death. Her ruthless management style left a significant mark on the Italian mafia.
Maria Licciardi, nicknamed "Bloody Mary," also led a cartel and was responsible for numerous crimes, including murders.
Criminologist Alex Iszatt emphasizes that the increase in elderly women in prisons does not necessarily indicate a rise in their criminal activity, but rather a recognition by law enforcement of their power and influence. These women often use manipulation and psychological pressure, making them more dangerous.
Thus, despite their outward harmlessness, competing with such grandmothers is not advisable, as they may prove to be much more complex opponents than they appear at first glance.
