UK Drill Star Digga D to Face Hearing Over Cannabis Supply Charges
Rhys Herbert, known by his stage name Digga D, a prominent figure in the UK drill music scene, is set to appear before a judge to determine if he was involved in supplying cannabis on a “commercial scale.” The rapper was arrested in February while broadcasting live on Instagram, sparking a legal case that has garnered significant public attention.
Arrest and Charges
Herbert, 24, was arrested near Lincoln on February 21, 2024, after being found with approximately 3kg (6.6lbs) of cannabis. Despite the significant quantity of the drug, Lincoln Crown Court was told that there was “no evidence of wider criminality” associated with his arrest. The rapper, hailing from Notting Hill, London, pleaded guilty in May to a charge of smuggling cannabis related to an incident on July 11, 2023, and admitted to supplying cannabis between October 26, 2022, and February 21, 2024.
Legal Dispute Over Intent
The prosecution and defense have differing interpretations of Herbert’s actions. The Crown’s case, as presented by barrister Lauren Sales, is that Herbert was “supplying cannabis on a commercial scale.” This assertion suggests that the rapper was engaged in more than just personal use or casual sharing, implying a larger, profit-driven operation.
However, Herbert’s defense, led by barrister James Scobie KC, contests this characterization. The defense maintains that Herbert’s involvement was limited to social supply—sharing cannabis among friends rather than engaging in sales. Scobie argued that any perceptions of commercial activity were mere “bravado,” potentially exaggerated by Herbert’s public persona and social media presence.
Next Steps
Judge Simon Hirst has adjourned the case for a Newton hearing, a procedure used in UK courts to resolve factual disputes before sentencing. This hearing will be crucial in determining whether the court accepts the prosecution’s or the defense’s version of events. A date for this hearing has not yet been set.
Current Status
Herbert remains in custody at HMP Wormwood Scrubs as he awaits further legal proceedings. The case continues to draw significant attention, not only because of Herbert’s celebrity status but also due to the broader issues it raises about the criminal justice system’s handling of drug-related offenses and the portrayal of public figures involved in such cases.
The upcoming Newton hearing will be pivotal in resolving the key dispute in Herbert’s case, potentially impacting his sentencing and future career. As the UK drill star awaits his next court appearance, his legal team continues to prepare their defense against the allegations of commercial-scale drug supply.
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