A drug dealer named James Roberts was caught plotting to smuggle 100kg of cocaine into the UK for distribution through couriers. Roberts, 42, used EncroChat to establish connections in South America with the intention of importing the drugs through Southampton. It was revealed that Roberts was involved in around 220kg of class A drugs across three separate conspiracies, handling over £1.7m in cash. However, his plans were foiled when European law enforcement authorities hacked the chat platform he was using – ‘SwiftFail’ and ‘RoboticGold’.
During a hearing at Liverpool Crown Court, prosecutor Alex Langhorn disclosed that messages retrieved by the police showed Roberts communicating with a user named ‘FitzStopper’ in Columbia. The incriminating exchanges detailed a plot to smuggle the cocaine through Southampton docks. Although there was no evidence to prove the drugs actually arrived, the messages indicated that the drugs would have been distributed if collected. Roberts was also implicated in significant financial transactions, including transferring £169,000.
Roberts collaborated with Darren Spencer, a former soldier, who primarily served as a broker under the handle ‘ApeChest’. Spencer facilitated orders and debt collection for Roberts, with both men indicted in the same count on conspiracy to supply heroin. The court learned that on one occasion, Roberts directed another user to arrange a heroin sale, prompting Spencer to chase outstanding payments. The exchanges also revealed Roberts instructing Spencer to threaten a non-paying customer.
Both Roberts and Spencer were apprehended on November 8, 2023, with cash amounting to £2,000 seized from Spencer’s residence and an undisclosed sum found at Roberts’ address. Roberts, who had prior convictions for battery and conspiracy to supply cocaine, was sentenced to 13 years and four months. Spencer, known for his military background and previous convictions, received an eight-year prison term. Despite their roles in drug dealing, Spencer’s lawyer emphasised his positive attributes and regret over his criminal involvement.
As Roberts and Spencer, distinguished by greying hair and black jumpers, bid thanks to the judge, they were escorted to the cells to begin their respective sentences. The courtroom proceedings shed light on the extensive drug operation orchestrated by the duo, underscoring the consequences of their illicit activities.