Lee Whiteley, 35, previously admitted conspiracy to supply class B drugs and the cultivation of cannabis
During the Proceeds of Crime investigation, a number of items were seized including a vintage Ford Cosworth valued at £90,000(Image: GMP)
A convicted drug dealer has been ordered to pay back more than £200,000, including by giving up a £90,000 vintage Ford car.
Lee Whiteley, 35, previously admitted conspiracy to supply class B drugs and the cultivation of cannabis in November 2023. Whiteley, of Alkrington Road North in Middleton, was handed a suspended sentence.
But following a confiscation order at Minshull Street Crown Court, he must now repay £218,443 believed to have been derived from his crimes.
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During the Proceeds of Crime investigation, a number of items were seized including a vintage Ford Cosworth valued at £90,000, a Transit van worth £50,000 and a £3,000 electric bike, Greater Manchester Police said.
Officers proved three houses he had bought had been purchased through criminal proceeds. If the moneyh isn’t paid back within three months, Whiteley faces three years behind bars.
The force said the money will then be used to benefit communities through the Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme (ARIS).
Financial Investigator Kelly Belfield said: “This case highlights that crime doesn’t pay and we will come after criminals and take their ill-gotten gains. The case is unusual as Whiteley was only convicted of benefiting from £3,800 from his drugs business.
“However, using Proceeds of Crime legislation and carrying out a confiscation investigation, I have managed to bring this figure up to £218,443, which is a huge increase and a great result.
“If Whiteley fails to pay the money within three months, then he will serve an extra three years in jail – and still have to sell his assets and pay using the proceeds. Reclaiming cash this way not only disrupts criminal activity but it also directly benefits communities across Greater Manchester.
“These funds will be reinvested into vital community programmes and services through our Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme (ARIS) funding scheme.
“This cash recovery also highlights the strength of the Proceed of Crime Legislation and that we will continue to use it.”
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