The record
What I did
I broke the law for money. I was caught, tried and sentenced, and I served my time. “These weren’t the cards I was dealt, these were the ones I chose.”
17 Feb 2015
Arrested in dawn raids by the regional organised crime unit and charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine.
2015
Remanded to HMP Bedford, then released on bail to await trial. I turned 30 on bail, on 11 February 2016.
4 Apr 2016
Trial opened at St Albans Crown Court. A second charge, importing cannabis, was added while I was on bail.
Apr 2016
During the trial the judge ruled that the full download of my phone, which supported my defence, had not been disclosed. He refused to stop the trial.
23 May 2016
Convicted of conspiracy to supply cocaine. Acquitted of importing cannabis.
12 Jul 2016
Sentenced to ten years. The judge found my role significant, not leading, and that I had no previous convictions.
2016
HMP Bedford, where I trained as a Samaritans Listener. Moved after the November 2016 riot.
Nov 2016 – Oct 2018
HMP Birmingham, two years. Listener, healthcare rep, prison council lead, debating champion.
Oct 2018 – 2019
HMP Hewell.
2020
HMP Hollesley Bay, open conditions.
19 Oct 2020
Released.
Some of what was printed about me is wrong. The corrections, with sources, are on what the papers got wrong.