Ryan Coleman, 36, from Torquay, was sentenced to 15 years at Exeter Crown Court after admitting to supplying cocaine, ecstasy, cannabis and ketamine. Police said he sold around 80kg of Class A and B drugs in approximately 18,500 transactions, with a street value estimated at over £1 million.
Dark Web Drug Trade
Coleman had been trading under the pseudonym Snowcap on multiple dark web marketplaces for six years. Investigations revealed he was using cryptocurrency to fund his lifestyle, including holidays, sporting activities, and a personal trainer.
Devon and Cornwall Police launched Operation Freebie in 2021 after gathering intelligence on Coleman during another drugs investigation. Detective Chief Inspector Sam Smoothy said:
“This case highlights the evolving tactics of organised crime groups using cryptocurrency and the dark web to facilitate illicit drug trade. We are continually advancing our investigative methods to track, trace, and disrupt criminal networks.”
Cryptocurrency Seized
Police discovered over £2.4 million in Bitcoin wallets linked to Coleman. Some of the funds are expected to be confiscated under the Proceeds of Crime Act, with half going to HM Treasury to support public services. Remaining funds could be reinvested into policing operations or used for other good causes.
Cryptocurrencies are fully digital forms of money. Unlike cash, they have no physical form and are not controlled by governments or banks. They can be used for purchases online, but trading can remain largely anonymous, which has made them attractive for criminal activity.
