Stefan Baldauf and Philip Lawson were sentenced for their roles in an organized crime group involved in attempting to transport 448kg of amphetamines to Australia, concealed in an excavator. Their arrest followed a 2020 NCA operation that dismantled the EncroChat messaging platform. Key evidence that led to their conviction included incriminating images shared on the platform. Both were ordered to pay substantial financial penalties or face extended prison terms, with their assets intended for funding further crime-fighting efforts.
Chris Hill, who led the NCA investigation, stated that these criminals displayed a blatant disregard for the devastation caused by illegal drug supply, focusing solely on profit.
Baldauf, who was sentenced to 28 years, must pay £1,007,637 within three months, or face an additional seven years in prison, highlighting the financial implications for crime.
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