Man convicted of supplying high-value drugs ordered to pay back more than £65,000

Photo: GMP

James Jones sentenced to three years and eight months

A man who was convicted of supplying high-value drugs across Manchester and Cumbria has been ordered to pay back more than £65,000.

James Jones (10/12/85) of Middleton was sentenced to three years and eight months in prison for conspiracy to supply cannabis, being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession of amphetamines with the intent to supply and money laundering.

The joint investigation with Cumbria Constabulary uncovered Jones at the head of a drugs supply ring, distributing large amounts of Class A and B from Manchester to Egremont in West Cumbria.

Following his conviction in February 2018, officers applied to the courts under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

The further investigation found Jones had a number of items that could be seized in order to pay back the money he benefited, thought to be around £100,000.

The following items were seized from him:

• £50,000 deposit placed on a house in Middleton
• A diamond engagement ring worth £7,725
• A Rolex watch worth £8,100
• Approximately £8,000 in cash

On Friday, 28 June 2019, after the seizure was taken into consideration, Jones was ordered to pay back £65,350 at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court. Failure to do so could see him extra time in prison.

Detective Constable Darren Wayman of GMP’s Challenger Manchester Team, said: “Taking positive action like this in a court of law shows that crime really doesn’t pay.

“We will continue to root out people like Jones who benefit from their crimes and do everything we can to take what they have illicitly gained away from them.”