Hull Man Sentenced to 16 Years as Greed Overcomes Him

A Hull man has been sentenced to 16 years in prison after being found guilty of drug trafficking and other crimes. Ryan Morris, 36, used an encrypted phone system to handle large-scale drug operations.

Details of the Case Against Morris

Morris, known by the nickname “Peakyblinder,” was involved in the distribution of cocaine, heroin, and other illegal substances. He acquired these drugs from international sources and sold them at significant profits. Prosecutors revealed that Morris had also evaded duty on tobacco and dealt with unlicensed fireworks.

Criminal Activities and Arrest

• Timeframe: Criminal activities took place between April 7 and May 29, 2020.
• Charges: Morris was convicted of conspiracy to supply cocaine and heroin and possession of cash as criminal property.
• Evidence: Law enforcement decoded encrypted messages revealing Morris’s role in drug trafficking.

Morris was found with £38,105 in cash concealed in a rucksack, which was linked to him through fingerprints. He initially denied his involvement in serious drug offenses. However, evidence showed he played a significant role in organizing drug deals.

Impact of Morris’s Actions

The court heard that Morris funded a lavish lifestyle using the proceeds from his illegal operations. He frequently purchased luxury items such as Rolex watches and designer clothing. Judge John Thackray KC highlighted the severe social consequences of Morris’s actions, noting the devastation caused by Class A drugs.

Court Proceedings and Sentencing

Morris was arrested in November 2020 after authorities conducted searches at multiple locations. During these searches, considerable quantities of tobacco, nitrous oxide containers, and fireworks were confiscated.

In his defense, Morris claimed he turned to smuggling cigarettes due to financial struggles during the lockdown. He previously worked as a qualified quantity surveyor. However, he admitted to lying during the proceedings and had previous convictions unrelated to drugs.

Ultimately, Morris was sentenced to 16 years in prison on the basis that his crimes were driven by greed. The investigation highlighted his influence within a network involved in serious drug trafficking across borders.

The case underlines the ongoing battle against organized crime and the risks associated with drug trafficking in the region.