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A drug dealer from Hawkinge near Folkestone has been ordered to repay nearly £200,000 earned from illegal activities.
The man, aged 35, was found with cannabis, a knuckleduster, and a significant amount of cash during a police search of a property in Hawkinge, in October 2022.
Kent Police detectives analyzed phone messages, revealing involvement in the purchase and distribution of substantial quantities of the class B drug.
The man was subsequently sentenced to two years and three months in prison after admitting to the possession and supply of cannabis and possession of an offensive weapon.
Financial investigators determined that the individual had assets totalling £195,821 and sought a confiscation order under the Proceeds of Crime Act. The order was granted at Canterbury Crown Court on Wednesday, 25 September 2024, requiring the sum to be paid within three months or face an additional three years in prison while still being liable for the payment.
Detective Inspector David Godfrey said:
‘Many criminals are attracted to drug dealing because they believe it is an easy way to make money and because they care little for the harm it causes to everyday people.
‘What they perhaps don’t realise is that after they are arrested and convicted, we will take the money and assets earned unlawfully from them and will continue to do so until every penny has been paid back.’
Assets recovered under the Proceeds of Crime Act are distributed to the Home Office and operational agencies including Kent Police under the Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme.