A woman and five men from Ebbw Vale in Blaenau Gwent have been sentenced for their involvement in a large-scale cannabis operation. It is reported that they used the profits from their drug sales to purchase various pieces of art, including works by the famous street artist Banksy. The artwork, which is set to go through a proceeds of crime act process, is estimated to be valued at over £190,000. Some of the seized art includes Banksy’s Grappling Hook, valued at £150,000; Monkey Queen portrait, valued at £25,000, and The Watchtower Swing portrait, estimated to be worth £1,000.
In addition to the artwork, the group also used their illicit funds to buy designer items, a caravan, quad bikes, and jet skis with an estimated total value of £48,400. Over the course of three years, Gwent Police conducted 12 warrants in Ebbw Vale, seizing cash, cannabis, mobile phones, and art. Today, the individuals involved have been sentenced as follows:
– Christopher Scrivens, 37, received a three-year prison sentence for importing and conspiring to supply cannabis.
– A 33-year-old man was given a two-year community order and rehabilitation activities for his involvement in cannabis production and supply.
– A 39-year-old man received a 12-month community order and unpaid work for similar charges.
– Another 33-year-old man was given an 18-month community order and unpaid work for conspiring to supply cannabis and possessing criminal property.
– A 39-year-old man received a 12-month community order and rehabilitation activities for similar charges.
– A 41-year-old woman was given a 12-month community order and unpaid work for possessing criminal property.
Detective Chief Inspector Mike Preston of Gwent Police commended the hard work of his team in bringing these individuals to justice and seizing thousands of pounds worth of criminal assets. He emphasized that taking away assets acquired through crime sends a strong message that crime does not pay. Preston also highlighted the impact of drug dealers on communities, urging the public to come forward with any information on drug-related activities to help law enforcement tackle the issue effectively.
This case serves as a reminder of the consequences of engaging in illegal activities and the efforts undertaken by law enforcement to combat organized crime and drug trafficking. It demonstrates the importance of community involvement in reporting suspicious behavior and aiding authorities in maintaining the safety and well-being of neighborhoods.
