John Barry McDuff, a former Mr Scotland bodybuilder, has been sentenced to seven years in prison after being caught in a major drug trafficking operation. The 40-year-old, who previously won the 90kg category at the National Amateur Bodybuilding Championships in 2012, was involved in the purchase, sale, and supply of cocaine, heroin, and other controlled substances between March and June 2020.
McDuff’s involvement in the criminal underworld was exposed following a crackdown on the encrypted messaging service, EncroChat, which is commonly used by criminals. Authorities uncovered several incriminating messages that revealed McDuff’s role in a serious organised crime network. He used the handle “Biggie-Gla” to discuss drug shipments, including negotiations for large quantities of cocaine and heroin.
In the intercepted conversations, McDuff communicated with associates like “glasgowceltic,” who sent him photos of drug consignments, and “burritocastle,” who boasted about having “the biggest network combined in Glasgow.” They discussed trafficking significant amounts of drugs and money, including £604,000 owed by McDuff, a deal for one million diazepam tablets worth £600,000, and the supply of cannabis.
Despite his bodybuilding background, McDuff became entangled in the drugs trade, initially under the impression he was simply supplying steroids to bodybuilders. However, as he became involved in larger-scale drug operations, including the trafficking of cocaine and heroin, he was pressured to participate in more dangerous criminal activities.
Judge Lord Arthurson acknowledged McDuff’s efforts to rehabilitate himself while on remand but stated that a custodial sentence was necessary. He emphasized McDuff’s direct involvement in the trafficking of substantial quantities of Class A drugs, despite his previous positive image as a bodybuilder and “hero figure.”
In his defense, McDuff’s lawyer argued that he had been under pressure to supply larger quantities of drugs and had not initially understood the severity of his involvement. Since his arrest, McDuff has expressed remorse and is working to help others avoid the pitfalls of drugs and steroids.
McDuff’s sentencing serves as a reminder of the dangers of becoming involved in organised crime, regardless of past accomplishments. His case also underscores the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in cracking down on encrypted networks used by criminals.
