A man with a multimillion-pound property empire has been convicted for supplying drugs and money laundering as a result of a proactive investigation by Met officers.
Richard Baxter, 50, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply heroin, conspiracy to supply cocaine, and conspiracy to transfer criminal property – cash at Kingston Crown Court on Friday, 18 October.
The conviction demonstrates the Met’s proactive work in tackling the crimes that matter most to London residents.
The public regularly tell officers about their concerns about drug dealing within local communities and how it can bring violence and anti-social behaviour into the neighbourhood, a statement by the police said.
“This is why the Met is working harder than ever to tackle these crimes,” said the police.
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.
As part of their investigation, officers discovered Baxter owned a home in Surrey, with a property empire across the south-east of England. All four properties and a holiday chalet with a total approximate value of £1.5 million of houses have been seized as part of the investigation.
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 “our 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 act swiftly to pursue those seeking to cause harm by supplying drugs.
Baxter has been remanded for sentencing at Kingston Crown Court on Thursday, 5 December.
