Drug 'King' loses appeal against 20-year sentence

A drug dealer who called himself “The King” as he ran a gang smuggling heroin, cocaine and cannabis to the Island has lost an appeal against his 20-year prison sentence.

Kyle Brian Molyneux, also known as Johnson, was jailed in August after admitting attempting to produce heroin, being concerned in producing cocaine, conspiracy to remove criminal property and affray.

Police found messages on his phone linking him to drug shipments, violent debt enforcement, and involvement with organised crime in the UK.

He continued to run his drugs empire while in prison.

During the appeal, his advocate said the sentence imposed on the 28-year-old was too long, didn’t take account of the effect on his family and had taken incorrect facts into account.

However, Judge of Appeal Cross and Acting Deemsters Wild and Callin said the sentence was entirely justified.

They added prisoners who continue offending behind bars needed harsh punishment or law and order in prison would break down.

Molyneux’s appeal was refused.