Former professional boxing champion revealed behind the mask

Posted : 24 April 2025

Carl "Dynamite" Dilks, a former British Masters light heavyweight boxing champion, has been revealed as a drug broker who operated under the alias "Cherry Vape" on the encrypted messaging platform EncroChat. His illegal activities came to light after French police cracked EncroChat’s secure network, which exposed his involvement in trafficking large quantities of cocaine.

Dilks, a father of three from Netherton in Merseyside, reportedly turned to drug dealing due to financial pressures during the pandemic, fearing his family could lose their home. Though he was part of a high-stakes operation, he personally received only minor financial gains, the court was told. Prosecutors described him as a commodities broker in the drug trade, working closely with a more senior gang leader known as "Thor," who was behind plans to import massive cocaine shipments from Sierra Leone.

Evidence from messages showed Dilks coordinating the collection and delivery of Class A drugs and cash with several associates. One message thread discussed the supply of at least eight kilograms of cocaine. He was eventually arrested at his home in November 2023, following extensive investigations.

In court, Dilks’ defense argued that he was only marginally involved and acted under the direction of his associate, Darren Schofield. His lawyer described his actions as a desperate response to financial hardship during lockdown, emphasizing that he was not a key figure in any organized crime syndicate.

Dilks expressed deep remorse through his legal team, acknowledging the pain his actions caused his wife and children. Letters from friends and family spoke of his previously upstanding character, his contributions to his community, and his dedication as a husband, father, and volunteer. He had also served in the military and worked on the railways.

Judge Ian Harris, in sentencing, noted that despite Dilks’ previous clean record and personal struggles, his involvement in serious drug crimes was undeniable. The judge emphasized the broader harm caused by drug trafficking and stated that Dilks had knowingly and actively engaged in a dangerous criminal operation.

Ultimately, Dilks pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine and was sentenced to eight years and eight months in prison. While acknowledging his remorse and community standing, the court concluded that his crimes were severe and required significant punishment.

Former professional boxing champion revealed behind the mask

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