A man from Scarborough has been sentenced to four years in prison for using cryptocurrency to facilitate his drug dealing operations. Benjamin Dack, 28, was first arrested in 2023 after authorities launched an investigation into suspected drug trafficking. Despite his initial arrest, Dack continued selling cannabis and was found to have used cryptocurrency to obscure the transactions.
At York Crown Court on Friday, Dack pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cannabis, possession of criminal property, and involvement in the supply of cannabis. He denied assaulting an emergency worker during his arrest on April 22, 2026, a charge that was allowed to remain on file. The court heard evidence that Dack had attempted to evade detection, including the possession of luxury items like Rolex watches.
Financial investigator Amy Monkman revealed that Dack's phone showed cryptocurrency transactions linked to drug deals. She noted that cryptocurrency is increasingly used to conceal assets and disguise the movement of funds. North Yorkshire Police seized approximately £4,104 in Bitcoin and £7,580 in cash, which will be preserved until a hearing in March 2027 under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Detective Constable Alfie Thomlinson stated that the evidence clearly implicated Dack in large-scale cannabis supply. While pleased with the outcome, he emphasized that the police will continue to combat drug-related crime and its harmful impact on vulnerable communities.