Dark web drug dealer selling super strength ketamine substitute jailed

A dark web drug dealer specialising in experimental ‘designer drugs’ has been sentenced to 2 years 4 months in prison following an international operation targeting vendors of illegal drugs through dark web market places such as Silk Road II.

Alex Middleton, 20, was arrested on 6 November 2014 at his home in New Waltham, Grimsby by NCA officers.

Middleton, who operated under the name of ‘MaximusDecimus’ was active on at least nine online drug market places and specialised in providing experimental designer drugs  controlled pharmaceuticals and experimental designer drugs sourced from India and China.

At the time of his arrest NCA officers found Class B drug methoextamine, a stronger version of ketamine, in bags with fake invoices claiming that the drug was a ‘sea vegetable supplement’ from a legitimate health food company. They also found bottles of Class C Alprozam liquid, more commonly known as Xanax.

Further analysis of Middleton’s computers found orders for chemistry equipment as well as details of transactions to the USA, Canada, Germany and the UK. Middleton’s online profile on two dark web marketplaces alone detailed feedback from 195 transactions.

On the 10 June 2015, Middleton pleaded guilty to five charges relating to the possession, importation and intent to supply of Class B and C drugs. He was sentenced to 2 years 4 months  at  Leeds Crown Court on 30 September 2015.

NCA Branch Commander, David Norris said:

“This is another reminder to criminals that the dark web isn’t as anonymous as they might hope, we have the ability to track and identify them and will continue to prosecute people who use the dark web to commit and enable serious crime.”