UK drill star Digga D has been jailed for three years and 11 months for supplying 45kg of cannabis after being arrested during an Instagram livestream. The musician, whose real name is Rhys Herbert, 24, faced the judge at Lincoln Crown Court where he was found guilty of serious drug offenses.
Herbert was arrested on February 21, 2024, during the early hours of the morning at his home near Lincoln. During the livestream, the artist was seen interacting with fans, oblivious to the police raid about to take place. Prosecutors reported Herbert's involvement went beyond just possession; his actions related to the importation and supply of Class B drugs.
Initially, the rapper pleaded guilty to the importation of 3.6kg of cannabis from the US during June and July of 2023 but denied being involved in any larger commercial sales. The court proceedings culminated with what’s known as a Newton hearing—a trial of the issue where the judge determined the true level of offending based on the evidence provided.
During this trial, the presiding judge, Simon Hirst, expressed being satisfied Herbert had sold at least 45kg of cannabis for commercial profit. Judge Hirst remarked, “The level of the offending is so serious there must be a sentence of imprisonment.” The shocking details revealed Herbert had traditionally used cannabis, admitting to daily use since he was just 12 years old.
The sentencing highlights Herbert’s troubling history, which includes six previous convictions amounting to 13 offences, with charges related to violent disorder and possession of weapons. His past led the prosecution to label him as significant to the drug trade, but his defense argued he was not part of organized crime.
James Scobie KC, defending Herbert, emphasized the rapper's position as primarily a one-man operation, claiming, “He’s not a danger to the public, he’s actually a contributor to the public.” He communicated the sadness surrounding Herbert’s lost potential due to imprisonment, stating, “It is very, very sad and disappointing he has had at the very least a year of his productive working life behind bars.”
The court heard letters from Herbert’s mother, underscoring his good character and remorse during his time behind bars. She noted her son has taken to reading the Bible daily and feels regret for his choices. These sentiments were echoed by the detective involved with the case, Det Con Jacob Saville. He stated, “Drugs and the associated criminality they bring devastate communities and we will continue to identify and arrest those responsible who engage in this activity.”
Digga D’s case has stirred discussions surrounding the lives of young artists grappling with fame and the pressures surrounding it, particularly within the drill music genre. Artists often walk the thin line between public persona and personal choices, leading to consequences not only for their careers but also for their lives.
Now serving his sentence, Herbert must face the reality of what could potentially be the defining moment of his young career. The impact of drug offenses is severe, but it won’t just affect him. The repercussions reach far beyond personal urns of time served—felt throughout his community and fans. Just 24 years old, Herbert stands at a crossroads, one where his talents were initially meant to shine.
Hailing from Notting Hill, London, Herbert became known for his drill music, reflecting the struggles and experiences of his community. His story is one of triumph overshadowed by his choices, inviting conversations on creativity, substance use, and the long arm of the law.
Now behind bars and reflecting on his life choices, the hope is for Digga D to emerge not just as another statistic but as someone who can highlight the potential for change within troubled narratives. He has the qualities to inspire but must emerge renewed and determined to redirect his path.