A CRYSTAL meth chemical dealer involved in a long-running extradition battle has finally been sentenced.

Brian Howes admitted ten charges of supplying red phosphorous and iodine -used to make metamphetamine -to crystalmeth dealers in the US, where those chemicals are restricted.

He has admitted that he knew, or had reasonable cause to know, that his customers were using the chemicals for illegal purposes.

Howes, from Middlesbrough, also admitted mislabelling the chemicals when they were shipped, with his website KNO3.com, based in Bo'ness near Falkirk, Scotland, promising "discreet delivery".

His illegal dealing came to light when Cleveland Police joined forces with US drug enforcement officers.

Detective Sergeant Rebecca Driscoll, Cleveland Police’s senior investigating officer for the case, welcomed the 70 months sentence.

She said: “The sentencing yesterday of Brian Howes in Arizona closes a case that was inundated with years of legal wrangling in Howes’ effort to avoid prosecution.

“In Arizona on April 16th this year Kerry Ann Howes pleaded guilty and was also sentenced. She was given 232 days imprisonment and was given credit for time already served. She was sent back to the UK shortly thereafter.

“This gives closure to a complex case that began in 2005.

“Brian and Kerry Ann Howes were responsible for the export of chemicals which was used to create a lethal and highly addictive drug.

“Their actions were driven by financial greed - and with absolutely no thought for the consequences. Even after the authorities intervened and their illegal actions were pointed out, they carried on regardless.”