Cardiff Drug Dealer Ordered to Pay Back £18,000

A drug dealer who was caught with Class A drugs including cocaine and MDMA has been ordered to pay back £18,000 following a Proceeds of Crime Act hearing.

Ryan Lewis, 28, was stopped by police in Cardiff on October 31 last year while driving a rented Ford Focus in the Cathays area. Officers made the decision to pull over the vehicle after witnessing what they believed to be a suspected drug deal.

When asked if he had anything on him, Lewis admitted he had a package in his boxer shorts. The package contained pills, and he was also found with £140 in cash. A further search at Cathays police station revealed a 1g wrap of cocaine. Upon being arrested, Lewis asked: “How do you know they’re Class A drugs?” 🚔

A subsequent search of Lewis’ home uncovered multiple grip-seal bags containing various controlled drugs, including cocaine, MDMA, LSD, and ketamine. Police seized an additional £1,760, and examination of his mobile phone revealed messages related to the supply of Class A and B drugs.

Lewis, of Crwys Road, pleaded guilty to three counts of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, one count of possession with intent to supply Class B drugs, and possession of criminal property. The court heard he was of previous good character.

In mitigation, Hannah Friedman said there was no evidence her client had been directing anybody below him in the drugs chain or of having any influence on those above him. She described the defendant as having a “positive childhood” with some difficulties he had to overcome, including debt issues.

Judge Hywel James said the defendant had been “motivated by financial gain” and sentenced Lewis to 28 months imprisonment in April.

At Wednesday’s Proceeds of Crime Act hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, the court heard Lewis benefited to the tune of £23,581 as a result of his offending. The defendant was said to have assets worth £18,088 and was ordered by Judge Paul Hobson to pay that sum within three months.