Glossop tattooist caught in police sting
A Derbyshire man has been sentenced to 40 years in a Dubai prison after being found with cocaine. Sam Dorman, 33, was arrested earlier this month in a police operation that reportedly found half a gram of the drug on him and a further 28g at his home.
The father-of-one, originally from Glossop, had been living in the United Arab Emirates since 2022. He moved there to set up a tattoo and barber business, but now faces spending the rest of his life behind bars in Al-Awir Central Prison — a facility known for harsh conditions and allegations of brutality.
Drugs worth thousands under UAE law
While the amount of drugs involved might not appear significant by UK standards, strict drug laws in the UAE mean even small quantities can result in severe punishment. In the UK, the stash might have been worth around £2,000. In Dubai, it could fetch up to three times as much — and carry extreme consequences.
According to sources close to the family, the operation that led to Dorman’s arrest was triggered when a buyer he had sold to was caught and handed over his phone to police. Officers allegedly used the device to pose as the buyer and lured Dorman into another deal, which resulted in his arrest.
Family fears for his safety
His family in the UK are said to be devastated by the sentencing. One source told the press: “He’s got a young daughter in the UK. To be locked away until he’s in his 70s is heartbreaking. When they last spoke to him, it looked like he’d taken a battering. I just hope someone can help.”
Concerns have also been raised about the prison where he’s being held, with past inmates describing inhumane conditions, overcrowding, and physical mistreatment.
British authorities respond
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has confirmed it is supporting a British man detained in Dubai but has not given further details.
Dorman’s sentencing comes as international concern grows over the treatment of foreign nationals jailed in the Middle East for drug offences. It follows the high-profile case of teenager Bella May Culley, who is facing 20 years in a Georgian prison over a separate drug charge.
Sam Dorman’s case is now expected to attract further scrutiny as his family pushes for diplomatic help.
