Drug Dealer 'peakyyblinder' jailed for 16 years
Ryan Morris used the name "peakyyblinder" on an encrypted phone network
- Published
A man who used the pseudonym "peakyyblinder" on an encrypted phone network to supply drugs and launder money in the UK and Europe has been jailed for 16 years.
Ryan Morris, 36, of Harleston Close, Hull, was convicted on charges of conspiracy to supply cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine, as well as one count of money laundering following a seven-day trial at Hull Crown Court.
He had previously admitted a number of other offences, including possession of nitrous oxide with intent to supply and storing explosives without a valid license.
Det Insp Mark Hawley said Morris had tried to "channel the swagger and secrecy" of the infamous Birmingham gang as portrayed in the hit TV series.
"However, unlike the razor-sharp criminal enterprise.. his operation was far less cinematic and [was] shut down unceremoniously," he added.
Humberside Police began investigating Morris after receiving data from the French authorities in April and May 2020 following a lawful breach of the EncroChat network.
Examination of seized mobile devices identified evidence of his involvement in illegal tobacco imports, fireworks sales and supply of nitrous oxide.
Border Force also intercepted a package containing about £38,000 in cash in Dover, which had Morris' fingerprints on the packaging, and messages recovered from a seized encrypted phone detailed conversations involving "peakyyblinder" discussing and arranging deals involving large quantities of Class A drugs.
Locations and addresses linked to Morris were also searched and a number of items, including 9,500 nitrous oxide canisters, illegal fireworks and high-value items such as a Rolex watch and designer clothing, seized.
Morris was arrested in November 2020 and later charged with nine offences, police said.
Det Insp Hawley added: "The community impact this type of offending has in our neighbourhoods is the reason we will continue to do everything we can to disrupt criminal networks, removing them and the drugs they supply and distribute from our streets."
In addition to his prison sentence, Morris would also be subject to the Proceeds of Crime Act, which would be used to recover any benefits obtained through his criminal activity, police said.
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