Convicted drug dealer to lose $391,000

EDINBURGH, Scotland, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- A Scottish court has ruled a convicted drug dealer in Edinburgh must relinquish ownership of property and cars worth more than $391,000.

After failing to win a legal battle for his assets, George "Dode" Buchanan will have several of his expensive vehicles seized by the government, along with his share of two homes in Scotland, the Edinburgh Evening News reported Saturday.

Lord George Penrose of the Court of Session found that the 50-year-old, who previously was found guilty on drug-dealing charges, should have more than $780,000 worth of assets transferred to the government.

"Mr. Buchanan's income from legitimate sources was wholly insufficient to finance any but a basic lifestyle," the judge said. "He was on benefits at all times when not in prison."

"I consider on the evidence, that Mr. Buchanan purchased high-value motor cars to recycle or launder the proceeds of his dealing in controlled drugs."

The assets seizure comes three years after the convicted drug dealer was able to avoid a conviction on heroin-trafficking charges, the Edinburgh newspaper said.

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