Dealers jailed after encrypted messages deciphered by police

Three individuals have been sentenced to a combined total of over 15 years in prison for their role in the wholesale distribution of Class A and Class B drugs throughout the UK.

An investigation launched by the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU) in July 2020 uncovered evidence of the trio’s involvement in the drug trade. Information was passed on to SEROCU from Operation Venetic, an international law enforcement operation that targeted an encrypted global communication service used by criminals to openly discuss their exploits.

Malcolm Floyd, of Shepperton, Surrey, pleaded guilty to conspiring to supply a controlled drug of Class A (cocaine) and conspiring to supply a controlled drug of Class B (cannabis) at a previous hearing at Southampton Crown Court. The 53-year-old was sentenced to eight years and five months’ imprisonment, in addition to a Serious Crime Prevention Order (SCPO) that will be in place for five years from his release.

Glen Hewes, of Telegraph Road, Southampton, pleaded guilty to the same charges and was sentenced to seven years and two months’ imprisonment. The 52-year-old also received an SCPO that will be in place for five years from his release.

Cassandra Potter, also of Telegraph Road, Southampton, previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to supply a controlled drug of Class B (cannabis) and was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years.

The court heard that encrypted messages attributed to the three individuals showed their involvement in the supply of drugs and the movement of money. Despite no physical devices being recovered, officers were able to use the data present in the messages to attribute them to the three.

Senior investigating officer Detective Sergeant Dan Hope, of Serocu, said: ‘An extensive police investigation involving many hours of meticulous work attributing the encrypted messages has resulted in this organised crime group receiving substantial prison sentences.

‘Floyd, Hewes and Potter thought they were able to hide behind perceived anonymity to conduct their criminal business using encrypted phones, however their plans failed once international law enforcement agencies took down the Encrochat platform, ensuring police forces were able to trace those who used it to boast about their criminality.

‘If you are involved in the supply of illegal drugs, you can expect police to make every effort to disrupt this. Illegal drugs cause extensive harm to those who use the substances, and the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit will continue to make every effort to tackle serious and organised crime.’

Information about illegal drugs can be reported to police on 101 or via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.