UK drill rapper Digga D, whose real name is Rhys Herbert, has been sentenced to nearly four years in prison for his role in supplying cannabis. The 24-year-old artist was sentenced on January 31, 2025, after being arrested during an Instagram livestream where he was found with substantial amounts of cannabis. According to Lincoln Crown Court, he pleaded guilty to charges involving the importation and distribution of the Class B drug, admitting to the possession of approximately 50.65 kg and selling at least 45 kg for profit.
The incident unfolded on February 21, 2024, when Herbert was arrested near Lincoln. Judge Simon Hirst presided over the trial, which involved significant evidence presented over two days. Despite pleading guilty, Herbert denied claims from prosecutors alleging he was involved in supplying up to 60 kg of cannabis. Following careful consideration of the evidence, Judge Hirst concluded, "I am satisfied you were involved in supplying at least 45kg... The level of the offending is so serious there must be a sentence of imprisonment."
Herbert, known for his contributions to the UK drill music scene, faced charges related to drug supply amid prior convictions—a history highlighted by his defense lawyer, James Scobie KC. Scobie argued this was Herbert's first offense related to drugs, describing him as not being part of a large-scale operation but rather directing one individual to pick up the drugs. "This is absolutely a first offence in terms of drug supply," Scobie emphasized during the court proceedings.
Despite the defense's arguments, the court saw Herbert's actions as part of a serious drug undertaking. The judge noted the rapper expected significant financial gain and had engaged others to assist with the cannabis collection. The prosecution detailed how the investigation included extensive evidence and messages found on Herbert's phone linked him directly to the drug trade.
Herbert has been linked to multiple previous offenses, with six prior convictions on his record, including violent disorder and possession of a blade. This history has compounded the seriousness of his current charges, influencing the judge's decision to impose nearly four years of imprisonment, likely allowing for half the sentence to be served behind bars.
Detective Constable Jacob Saville commented on the ramifications of Herbert's actions, stating, "Drugs and the associated criminality they bring devastate communities, and we will continue to identify and arrest those responsible." Herbert's involvement in the drug trade serves as a reminder of the legal consequences tied to such activities, and the investigation leading to his charges has focused attention on the impact of drug-related crimes.
Emotional testimony was also heard, with Herbert's mother sharing insights about her son’s struggles with drugs, stating he had been using since the age of 12. Reports indicate he has been working on self-reflection during his time in custody and has been reading the Bible daily, expressing remorse for his actions. "He has been reading the Bible daily and is remorseful for what he had done," indicated sources close to the case.
Given this sentence, the future of Digga D’s music career is now put at risk. His lawyer, James Scobie KC, expressed disappointment over the time Herbert would spend behind bars, noting the negative impact it would have on his professional life. "It is very, very sad and disappointing... to see him behind bars for at least a year of his productive working life," Scobie lamented.
Through this case, the conversation surrounding the music industry, the allure of illicit activities, and the consequences of such decisions continues to evolve. Digga D, with his talent and ambition, finds himself at a crossroads with his career, now facing the realities of incarceration and their effect on his artistry and personal life.
While he will serve time for his involvement, this case also resonates with the societal issues stemming from drug supply and its ramifications, prompting discussions about the broader role of artists within their communities and the responsibilities they carry. The path forward for Digga D remains uncertain as he grapples with the fallout of his decisions, highlighting the often-complex intersection of music fame and legal dilemmas.