Andrew Bulcroft Convicted of Drug Conspiracy
A renowned boxing coach, Andrew Bulcroft, also known as Stefy Bull, has been found guilty of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and is facing a substantial prison sentence of up to 16 years. The 48-year-old has played a pivotal role in coaching several champions on both national and international stages, including the notable Terri Harper. He has been in custody since his conviction by a jury at Sheffield Crown Court in February.
Details of the Trial
Despite denying the charges against him, Bulcroft was determined guilty following a four-day trial. His sentencing, which was initially scheduled for May, has been postponed to August 26, where he will be sentenced alongside his co-defendant, Benjamin Williams. Bulcroft’s involvement in the crime came to light during the trial, which revealed his use of the encrypted communication service Encrochat, where he was suspected of acquiring significant quantities of cocaine under the alias “Yummycub”.
Connection to Drug Importation
The former boxer, notable for having lost a match to Amir Khan in 2007, was also associated with the McAllister brothers—Christopher and Jonathan—who were sentenced to prison in 2022 for their role in drug importation. Prosecutor Sam Ponniah presented evidence to the jury, including messages exchanged between Bulcroft and the McAllisters from March to May 2020, indicating Bulcroft’s participation in the drug conspiracy.
Defense and Co-Defendant’s Admission
Throughout the proceedings, Bulcroft maintained his innocence, claiming he was not the person behind the pseudonym Yummycub and expressed ignorance about owning any encrypted devices. Meanwhile, his co-defendant, Williams, aged 43, had already admitted guilt to charges that included conspiracy to supply cocaine and possession with intent to supply. He has since been granted conditional bail as he awaits sentencing.
Criminal Evidence and Relationships
Relationships between the defendants revealed a long-standing friendship, with both agreeing to engage in the illegal drug trade collaboratively. Authorities discovered substantial amounts of cocaine at Williams’s residence, along with his fingerprints on funds connected to the McAllisters. Williams was identified using the alias “Oiled.Rhino” within the Encrochat network.
Potential Consequences and Industry Impact
In the UK, the Sentencing Council guidelines stipulate that trafficking Class A substances could lead to community orders, but serious offenses can result in a maximum sentence of 16 years. Following the situation, the British Boxing Board of Control Central Area Council has indicated that Bulcroft’s licenses as a trainer, manager, and promoter will be reevaluated after his sentencing, although no individuals affiliated with him in the boxing world are implicated in wrongdoing.
