Paul Johnson, a former KFC employee, set up a black market drug deal in the attic of his home. The business flourished as the trafficker amassed huge profits of nearly £2,183,304 or $2.77 million. But police intervention put an end to this illicit enterprise.
Numerous assets have been seized
Not only was Paul Johnson sentenced to eight years in prison, but his assets resulting from the illegal activities were also taken away from him.
As a result, the Leicester Crown Court seized approximately £1.8 million, equivalent to $2.29 million, an amount representing his proceeds from the sale of narcotics. In addition, movable property, including a Range Rover of £20,000 and a Nissan Juke of £30,300, was forfeited by the court.
As a reminder, the defendant was brought before the court on charges of selling drugs for crypto-money. Hiding behind a tea shop, his underground business was able to generate several million dollars in turnover, given that his business is international in scope.
During the seizure at his home, court officers found MDMA tablets, LSD, heroin and ketamine, as well as utensils for the use of these drugs. According to the authorities, these products are estimated at over £400, but transactions in Bitcoin as payment are not traceable.
The relatives involved
Note that Lia Taylor-Walton, Johnson's ex-wife, also received a two-year suspended sentence for complicity with her ex-husband's drug empire.
The charge against her would be the acquisition of property derived from illicit funds, a very light charge compared to Johnson's charges. Johnson's charge is for possession and intent to sell drugs, the most common destination of which is the United Kingdom, where five gang leaders are involved in money laundering.
What do you think of this case of selling drugs via crypto-currencies?
I think all drugs should be legalised as people should be free to make their own choices.