Over 3,300 messages see drug dealer jailed for three years

A drug dealer from Isleworth has found that bad things (for him) really do involve the number three, after over 3,300 messages relating to the sale of drugs on his phone led to him being sentenced to over three years behind bars.

It all started as a normal day for Domantas Gilius on 4 August 2021, until he was stopped by Surrey Police officers as he was pulling into a petrol station in Ashford.

Whilst searching his car, officers located a large amount of cash, and he was also found in possession of cocaine. What started out as a routine search ended with Gilius being arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.

While Gilius claimed the drugs were for personal use, and the cash for an upcoming holiday, officers continued to investigate. Officers seized Gilius’ phone for analysis, and a search of his home uncovered a further quantity of drugs.

A drugs expert witness was asked to analyse data recovered from Gilius’ phone, where they found in excess of 3,300 messages and identified those that could relate to the sale of drugs. The drugs expert witness, who examines phones for references to drugs and language that could refer to drug dealing, found that Gilius was using emojis and street slang to promote the drugs he was selling. He also often referred to the quality of the drugs he was selling and the delivery options for customers.

With this wealth of information uncovered on his drug dealing, Domantas Gilius, 24, of Roxborough Avenue in Isleworth, was charged with three drugs related offences. He decided the game was up and on xx November 2021, pleaded guilty to:

• Possession with intent to supply cocaine
• Being concerned in supplying cocaine
• Being concerned in supplying cannabis

He was sentenced at Guildford Crown Court on Wednesday, 1 February to three years and nine months imprisonment. He was also ordered to destroy his phone, and to forfeit the cash that was seized from him, which has been given to a local drugs charity.

PC Luke Wnekowski, who investigated the case, said: “I hope this sentence sends a strong message to anyone dealing cocaine and cannabis. Gilius had no prior record of drug dealing, but our teams’ hard work proved his guilt. Our proactive teams work hard to fight drug dealing and kerb this type of activity. We will continue to disrupt drug dealers operating in Surrey.”