01-05-2025
Newport drug dealer had Rolex watch and Armani shoes
Kane Rudge, 28, from Newport was enjoying a 'lavish lifestyle' on the back of selling cocaine and cannabis across South Wales.
He was caught when police linked him to a drugs line, prosecutor Rose Glanville said.
Newport Crown Court heard how the defendant was seen on CCTV topping up one of the phones used by drug dealers.
Detectives also gathered Snapchat evidence of his involvement in sending out text bombs to potential customers and discussing business with fellow criminals.
When police raided his home on Yewberry Lane two months ago, they found 25g of cocaine worth around £2,500 on the street.
Also seized was 137.5g of cannabis valued at £1,710 and nearly £6,000 cash.
The Armani shoes he had were worth £650 and the Dior trainers £645.
Rudge pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession with intent to supply cocaine, possession with intent to supply cannabis and possession of criminal property.
The offences occurred between September 12, 2024 and March 14.
Rudge has previous convictions for robbery and possession with intent to supply cannabis for which he has served jail time.
Clare Wilks representing him said in mitigation: 'This was unsophisticated offending.
'The defendant has struggled with heavy use of cannabis over a number of years.
'He was spending £100 a day on cannabis alone at one point and was using cocaine on a recreational basis.'
She said he was drug-free since being remanded in custody.
Judge Carl Harrison told Rudge: 'You were plainly enjoying a lavish lifestyle.
'These offences are aggravated by your previous convictions which have now escalated from dealing class B drugs to supplying those at class A.'
The defendant was jailed for four years and told he would serve half of that sentence before being released from custody on licence.
He is set to face a proceeds of crime hearing later this year on August 28.
