Rhys Herbert, better known by his stage name Digga D, has been accused of amassing a substantial £153,000 fortune through cannabis dealing, according to details revealed in a preliminary Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) hearing at Lincoln Crown Court on Friday. This staggering figure represents the culmination of months of investigation and underscores the gravity of the charges against the 25-year-old drill music artist.
Herbert's downfall began in February 2024, when he was arrested at his home in Bracebridge Heath, near Lincoln, while live-streaming an Instagram broadcast. The high-profile arrest drew significant public attention, and subsequent court hearings revealed a tangled web of illicit activities that had been shrouded in secrecy.
As part of the POCA hearing, both the prosecution, led by Katherine White, and Herbert's defence team, represented by Ryan Thompson, requested an adjournment to allow for further discussion on money transfers and items of jewellery seized during the investigation. This pause will provide an opportunity to reach a consensus on the recovery of proceeds from Herbert's criminal activities.
Herbert, who has since been released from custody pending the outcome of this case, participated in the court proceedings via video link. The contrast between his legitimate earnings – reportedly exceeding £3 million – and the illicit gains he is accused of accumulating highlights the complexities at the heart of this case.
The drill music artist had previously pleaded guilty to two charges: one for importing 3.6kg of cannabis between June and July 2023, and another for being involved in the supply of cannabis. These admissions formed the basis of his earlier conviction and subsequent sentencing, which included a three years and 11 months prison term.
The case is set to resume on 18 September, when further discussions and agreements are expected regarding the financial recovery aspect of the POCA proceedings. This ongoing legal action demonstrates the authorities' dedication to targeting illicit earnings and disrupting the finances of criminal organisations.