A man involved in the supply of cannabis resin has been sentenced to three years in prison.
Robert Hall (45) of Kilwinning in Ayrshire was arrested in September 2009 as part of Operation STEEL – an intelligence-led investigation instigated by the Scottish Crime and Drug Enforcement Agency (SCDEA).
Hall was arrested in Stewarton, Ayrshire and was in possession of 50 kilograms of cannabis resin, with a street value of £143,740. In addition, police recovered 93,600 contraband cigarettes, and £41,645 cash.
Operation STEEL focused on the activities of Hall and his associates after a separate SCDEA investigation identified one of Hall’s main drug couriers.
Martin Gray was arrested in July 2009 as a result of Operation QUARTZ and earlier this month he pleaded guilty to being involved in the supply of cannabis resin. Gray was found in possession of a quantity of cannabis resin, which was suspected to be intended for onward supply in Ayrshire through Hall’s criminal network.
A number of other items belonging to Hall, believed to have been obtained from the proceeds of crime, were also seized for restraint by the SCDEA, including an Audi Q7 worth £35,000; a Rolex watch worth £17,000; two shotguns worth £20,000; a cash counting machine and a further £17,000, which was found in a number of bank accounts.
Detective Chief Superintendent Allan Moffat said: “This individual was involved in supplying significant amounts of cannabis resin to Scotland’s communities, where cannabis remains the most widely misused controlled drug.
“Today’s sentencing outcome demonstrates how committed we are to identifying those involved in serious organised crime. As a result of a separate investigation, we were able to make a number of links to other crime groups and individuals. We follow every lead and leave no stone unturned in pursuing these criminal networks. By piecing together information we build a picture of the criminals, their activities and their associates and use that intelligence against them.
“We will also exploit the full capabilities of Proceeds of Crime legislation to ensure these individuals can no longer enjoy the profits of their criminal activity.
“This should provide a clear warning to other people involved in serious organised crime – we will find out who you are and make sure you are brought to justice for your crimes.”
The assets seized for restraint will be the subject of a confiscation hearing in October this year.
