‘Not so funny now!’ Laughing drug dealer jailed after claiming benefits while waving wads of cash

A laughing drug dealer who gloated about claiming benefits while waving around wads of cash has been jailed for 40 months.

Iestyn Raven, 24, was handed his sentence after appearing at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court yesterday.

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However, South Wales Police released footage of the 24-year-old speaking to Universal Credit about when he would receive his latest payment.

Raven, who was arrested some time after the video, was heard saying: “Obviously I haven’t had my payment and I’m obviously skint.”

“I’m looking to see when the appointment is. Just struggling, I am, for money right now.”

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He also flashed a number of items of gold jewellery, including a bracelet and necklace.

A series of screenshots showing Raven gloating about his drug money and jewellery

A series of other drugs arrests led officers to the 24 year-old Barry man behind the “Ronnie and Reggie” drug line.

The group, which operates throughout the Vale of Glamorgan, supplies crack cocaine and heroin throughout the area.

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The 24-year-old was arrested on September 30 after being spotted by officers from the Cardiff and Vale Organised Crime Team at a McDonald’s drive through in Barry.

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Officers later recovered a drug phone, crack cocaine, heroin, cash and high-value designer clothing from Raven’s home.

Responding to Raven’s sentence, Detective Inspector Tim Jones said**:** “Iestyn Raven was making a substantial amount of money from his drug dealing and living a life of relative luxury at the expense of others.

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“Rest assured we will be using the Proceeds of Crime Act to ensure he doesn’t benefitfrom any ill-gotten gains when he is released.”

* Original Article:

https://www.gbnews.com/news/benefits-fraudster-wales-drug-dealer-universal-credit