A DEALER bragged about earning thousands a week for being involved in a drugs supply ring.

Kane Smith’s DNA was found on a bag containing 1.7kg of cocaine, which was discovered when officers carried out a warrant at an address in Shoebury in September 2016.

In February that year, Smith had been seen meeting a man in Wickford, who was later arrested after a warrant was carried out at an address in the town.

Following an investigation, Smith was arrested on July 4, 2017 after officers stopped his van in High Road, Benfleet. They found £27,000 in cash and two knives inside the van.

His two mobile phones were seized and one contained messages, notes and images that showed evidence of drug dealing.

The 34-year-old refused to give the passwords to the other mobile phone, which was heavily encrypted. Officers pursued legislation under Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 in order to access the device but he refused to hand over his password.

He appeared at Basildon Crown Court on August 22 last year, where he admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine, having a bladed article and possessing criminal property.

He later admitted failing to comply with a notice to disclose a passcode to protected information.

Smith, of Woodham Park Drive, Benfleet, was sentenced on Wednesday to seven-and-a-half years for the drugs offence and concurrent sentences for the other offences.

Det Ins Steve Nelson said: "Smith bragged about earning £2,000 week in a message on one of his phones.

"But crime never pays. He is now serving a jail term and we will use the Proceeds of Crime Act to seize any assets he gained through his illegal activity.

"His sentencing for refusing to allow officers access to his mobile phone also gives criminals a clear message that they will be prosecuted if they attempt to withhold potential evidence on mobile phones and computers that are password-locked devices or encrypted."

“We will continue to target individuals who sell drugs in our county because of the high harm this illegal trade causes.

“Most members of the public will not be affected because they are not involved in this world.

“But drug dealers prey on the vulnerable - whether that’s a child or vulnerable person who is exploited to transport drugs or sell them on the street, or the people who buy the drugs who are battling the consequences of addiction.

“Violence and the threat of violence also underline the drugs trade.

“We ask anyone who has any concerns about drug dealing in their community, or are worried about someone they fear is being exploited, to please report it so we can deal with it appropriately.”

Call 101 or alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org.