A SIXTY-nine-year-old Winchcombe cannabis dealer was warned he stands to lose a lot of cash if he cannot prove that money in his bank account came from an inheritance or other legal source.

Michael Sawczuk of Delavale rd, Winchcombe, was due to be sentenced at Gloucester Crown Court, on Wednesday February 10, for possession of cannabis on March 17 last year with intent to supply.

He had been arrested in possession of £300 worth of cannabis and £500 cash as well as weighing scales and empty bags.

David Scutt, prosecuting, told the court that the case could not be concluded yet because Sawczuk has not accepted the findings of a police Proceeds of Crime investigation into his assets.

The police had looked back through only the last year of his income and outgoings but were entitled to go back six years, which Sawczuk was inviting them to do, he said.

"He has provided an explanation for funds in his account in relation to some sort of inheritance," Mr Scutt said.

Joe Maloney, for Sawczuk, said: "He is adamant that three years ago his mother died and he received an inheritance."

Judge Jamie Tabor QC responded: "Absoutely fine - but it has got to be properly evidenced."

He agreed to adjourn until May 4 to give time for a full investigation of Sawczuk's finances.

The judge warned Sawczuk: "The Proceeds of Crime Act is a very tough piece of legislation. The prosecution are entitled to look at what money you have had going through your bank accounts and you have got to explain where it has come from.

"If you can't they will have it They are now going to go back further, at your invitation. This is serious. You could lose a lot of money if you don't respond properly. I am giving you 28 days to provide a statement about your finances and there will be a full Proceeds of Crime hearing on May 4."