A BARNSLEY drug dealer, who was jailed after large quantities of money and Class A drugs were found in his house, has been ordered to pay back over £65,000 he made from criminality.

Work by the Economic Crime Unit (ECU) resulted in the convicted drug dealer being ordered to pay back almost £66,000 which he made from his illegal activities.

The order was secured through the work by the ECU’s Asset Recovery Team. In March, the unit ensured that over £310,000 will be paid back into the Criminal Justice System. Part of the work the ECU completes is ensuring that those who have committed crime, and been brought before the courts, pay back to the communities they have negatively impacted.

Ashley Walker, aged 29, who was jailed in July 2024 for five years after pleading guilty to possessing cocaine with intent to supply, was one of the criminals ordered to pay back into the system last month.

A warrant at Walker's address in May 2024 revealed a large stash of Class A drugs, as well as approximately £50,000 in cash. All of this led to his eventual conviction and subsequent jail sentence.

Following his sentencing, officers analysed how Walker had benefited from his illegal activity, before looking at what he had available to pay back into the system. This included cash, a gold ring and a watch worth approximately £2,500.

On March 28, Walker, of Swanee Road, Kendray, was handed a confiscation order of £66,054.27. He has three months to pay this amount.

Laura Hough, of the Economic Crime Unit, said: "The process of securing confiscation orders is a combination of thorough work by the Asset Recovery Team and the vital information submitted by the public. Without your help, we wouldn't be able to paint such a detailed intelligence picture on individuals who have potentially benefitted from a life of criminality.

“Have you noticed someone who has suddenly started wearing designer clothing or have bought a second car despite not appearing to have a job? They may be gaining this money illegally. If you see something that is not quite right, I urge you to report it to us, or through Crimestoppers if you don’t want to talk to us directly and stay anonymous.

“Tell us what you know – call 101 or go through our suspicious activity online portal. If you don’t feel comfortable contacting us directly, you can get in touch with Crimestoppers on https://orlo.uk/qNFEb”