Over the last several years , G of crook conducted their nefarious ventures through EncroChat , a France - base communications system that used encrypted phones and other security features to keep everyone ’s data top secret . But European law enforcement finally managed tohackthe system in 2020 , leading to the stay of nearly 750 suspect outlaw in the UK alone . The UK ’s National Crime Agencycalledit “ Operation Venetic , ” and many investigations are still ongoing .
While wading through all the grounds of money laundering , arm dealing , and other organized law-breaking endeavors on EncroChat , officials come upon a charming photo of a pulley block of matureblue cheesestill in its packaging . “ craft by Long Clawson in Leicestershire , ” the recording label read . “ A delicately rich and creamy Stilton . ” The EncroChat user who shared the snap was named “ Toffeeforce ” which , accord toThe Guardian , is a nod to Everton Football Club .
Toffeeforce ’s other EncroChat activity had linked him to drug transaction , and police could specialise down the fishy pool since they now knew his favoritesoccerteamandhis favorite Stilton . But they did n’t have to — because Toffeeforce ’s ill - fat photo also sport most of his hand , fingerprint and palm tree mark included .
Forensic analysts and a fingermark medical specialist then team up to enhance the print and match them to one Carl Stewart , a 39 - year - old Liverpool occupier ( though not , as we hump , a Liverpool Football Club fan ) . On May 21 , Stewart pleaded guilty to charges of “ transfer criminal property ” and conspiracy to supply drugs , and was sentenced to 13.5 days in prison house .
“ Carl Stewart was involve in append large amounts of class A and B drug , but was get out by his sexual love of Stilton Malva sylvestris , ” Detective Inspector Lee Wilkinsonsaidin a Merseyside Police assertion .
Stewart ’s gaucherie has no doubt taught other scofflaws a decisive object lesson of the crime barter : If you ’re go bad to share a photograph ofcheeseon the dark entanglement , make trusted the block is big enough to cover your whole hand .
[ h / tThe Guardian ]
