LIKE many people in post-recession Britain, Percy Smith lived on benefits.

Unlike most, however, the 43-year-old enjoyed a lavish lifestyle. He bought four new cars – including an Audi – worth a total of nearly £77,000. His car insurance bill alone was more than £9,000 a year.

How could he afford it? Because as well as claiming benefits, Smith, from Water Lane, was also a drug-dealer and money launderer.

Now, however, he has got his comeuppance. He is starting nearly four years behind bars, after admitting conspiracy to supply heroin and cannabis, and money-laundering.

There might be those who think that if anything, Smith’s jail term is too short.

This is, after all, a man who thought nothing of claiming benefits (paid for by us) while plying a disgusting illegal trade.

As Acting Sergeant Toby Gorwood of North Yorkshire Police says, he “selfishly fuelled drug abuse in York and the associated criminality which comes with it. This is something which is abhorrent to law-abiding people who work hard for their living.”

We couldn’t agree more.

Smith’s jail term is only part of his punishment, however.

Police plan to use the Proceeds of Crime Act to confiscate the money raised from selling his four cars. So not only has he lost his liberty, he stands to lose a substantial amount of illegally-earned cash, too.

We, like Sgt Gorwood, hope this sends out a loud, clear message to anyone tempted to follow in Smith’s footsteps. You may benefit from your crimes in the short-term: but you will be caught, and you will pay the price.