Drug Kingpin Gets 10-Year Sentence

Ruben Flutey, 34, was sentenced to 10 years and five months in prison for his role in a drug supply network. The sentencing occurred at the Wellington District Court following an investigation into organized drug dealing in the Wairarapa region.

Flutey faced 18 charges, including importing and supplying methamphetamine, cocaine, cannabis, ecstasy, and ketamine. He was also charged with participating in organized crime and conspiring to deal methamphetamine.

The investigation, led by the Wairarapa CIB, focused on methamphetamine distribution between March 2023 and December 2024. It revealed a network involving Flutey and his associates, who supplied millions of dollars worth of methamphetamine across New Zealand.

During the investigation, search warrants led to the seizure of nearly $200,000 in assets, including drugs, cash, a classic car, motorbikes, and jetskis. Four of Flutey's associates had already been sentenced, with another four set for sentencing in late November and December.

Detective Senior Sergeant Phil Skoglund described the case as a 'major blow' to organized crime in the Wairarapa region. He emphasized the harm caused by methamphetamine and organized crime, stating that offenders will be held accountable.