A man with a multimillion-pound property empire has been convicted at Kingston Crown Court for supplying drugs and money laundering as a result of proactive investigation by Met officers.

Richard Baxter, 50, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to the following offences at Kingston Crown Court on Friday, 18 October:

• Conspiracy to supply Heroin
• Conspiracy to supply Cocaine
• Conspiracy to transfer criminal property – cash

In August 2024, Spanish police arrested Baxter in Valencia, and he was extradited back to the UK to be remanded in custody.

As part of their investigation, specialist officers investigating criminal gangs operating in London discovered that Baxter was one of the key figures of a group smuggling hundreds of kilos of cocaine and heroin, before laundering money through various companies.

Officers also discovered r=that Baxter owned a home in Surrey, with a property empire across the south-east of England.

All four of his properties along a holiday chalet, which have  a combined total approximate value of £1.5m, have been seized as part of the investigation.

Baxter has been remanded for sentencing at Kingston Crown Court on Thursday, 5 December.

Detective Constable David Lawn, who led the investigation, said: "We have zero-tolerance for anyone who engages in criminal activities and are committed to combat the sale of dangerous and illegal drugs which pose a threat to the public.

"The Met are deploying specialist resources to tackle drug criminality and make the capital a safer place to live.

"Baxter's conviction sends out a strong message to those who seek to profit from illegal drug trade – you will be held accountable for your actions in front of the court."

Met officers are working alongside communities to crack down on individuals who supply drugs in London.

As part of the Met's drive to tackle issues that matter most to communities through its 'A New Met for London' plan, officers are focusing on community crime fighting, acting on residents' concerns, making London safer for those who live, work and raise a family in the capital.

The supply of drugs has devastating consequences on communities across London and beyond – it causes addiction, having devastating health impacts, as well as leading to anti-social behaviour and violence.

With the help of local communities sharing information, Met officers are acting swiftly to pursue those who seek to cause harm by supplying drugs.

If you want to report a drugs crime, call 999 in an emergency, 101 or report online.

Alternatively, this can be reported to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.