Luton drug dealer jailed for an extra 287 days

A drug dealer from Luton has been jailed for a further 287 days for failing to pay back money he made selling Class A drugs.

Ryan Kirkpatrick, 37, of Jasmine Road, Luton, was one of a gang of 12 men and boys jailed for a total of 40 years in June 2017 for supplying crack cocaine and heroin in the High Town area of Luton.

He was sentenced to five years and four months for conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.

Following an investigation by the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU), a confiscation order was granted against Kirkpatrick for the benefit of his criminality, thought to be £41,000.

Using the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), ERSOU’s Criminal Finances Team were able to establish that he had a property in Jamaica which could release the amount owed.

However, following a hearing at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, August 5, Kirkpatrick was jailed for a further 287 days for not complying with the order.

He will be eligible for release should this be met, or alternatively serve the full term and still owe the outstanding amount upon release.

Paul Fitzsimmons, Senior Financial Investigation Manager, said: “Our team of specialist investigators work tirelessly to ensure that offenders - even once convicted - pay back the proceeds from their illicit actions.

"Criminals should be aware that, even once their illegal activities have caught up with them, we will continue to pursue the money and assets made through their activities, regardless of how long it takes.

“Although Kirkpatrick will serve an additional jail sentence he will still need to pay the amount to satisfy the order, and we will continue our investigations as necessary.”

The Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU) tackles serious organised crime and the terrorism threat across the East of England.