Teenage Wolverhampton drug dealer placed under curfew until court decides whether he was 'acting under direction'

Daniel Riley, 19, of Thunderbolt Way, pleaded guilty at Wolverhampton Crown Court yesterday (Thursday) to being concerned in the supply of cocaine and the transfer of criminal property, namely cash. 

Riley admitted selling cocaine in Wolverhampton between Boxing Day, 2023 and July 11, 2024, and during the same time transferring cash to another person which is contrary to Proceeds of Crime Act 2022.

However, before Riley can be sentenced there needs to a discussion between his defence, the prosecution and Judge Simon Ward KC about the circumstances of his crimes. 

Riley's lawyer William Chipperfield KC said: "At the time of these offences my client was acting under direction of others."

Prosecuting Tim Harrington KC replied: "The Crown does not accept this basis of plea."

Judge Ward ordered the prosecution and defence to return in April for a half hour discussion about the basis of plea before sentencing can go-ahead. 

Both the prosecution and Judge Ward were alarmed Riley had been given unconditional bail after his appearance at Dudley Magistrates Court on January 30.

Mr Harrington said: "I was surprised to see that the defendant was on unconditional bail concerning the seriousness of these offences. He could be sentenced up to seven years in custody."  

Judge Ward said: "I was also was surprised to see this defendant was on unconditional bail."

Defending, Mr Chipperfield said: "He does understand the gravity of these offences and does expect a custodial sentence. But it would be easier for him to deal with the matters of his case if he is not remanded in custody today."

He told Riley: "It would be harsh of me to remand you in custody at this time. I do want you to hand in your passport into Bilston Road Police Station by 5pm tomorrow. 

"I also want to put you on a tag to make sure you are at home at night time so if you were not the police would start hunting you. It sounds dramatic but that is what happens."

He added: "And that starts tomorrow night, the curfew will be from 8pm until 6am, so you need to be in earlier than that so the electronic tag company can come and set it up."