Posted on Wednesday 21 September 2022
A drug dealer caught with around £50,000 worth of drugs and £73,000 in cash has been jailed.
Darren Smith was stopped by Consett response officers after they spotted him riding a motorbike dangerously around a residential area of the town in March, this year.
Smith ditched the bike in an attempt to make off with his stash but was quickly detained by officers.
Smith, who was also intoxicated, subsequently failed a roadside breath test.
A search of his backpack revealed around £40,000 worth of cocaine, around £10,000 worth of ketamine and £73,000 in cash inside.
The 29-year-old was arrested and remanded into custody to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on Friday, September 2.
Smith, of Castledene Road, pled guilty to possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply, possession of Class B drugs with intent to supply and money laundering.
He was sentenced to 45 months in prison and was after being convicted for drink driving, also received a 36-months driving disqualification and was ordered to pay a £120 fine.
The cash was seized and forfeited.
T/Detective Constable David Toomer, from Consett CID said: “This is a great result for the local community of Consett and a one which I’m sure will be welcomed by residents.
“Not only have we disrupted Smith and his accomplices but also a huge supply of illegal drugs are now off the streets of Derwentside and the accumulated cash is now back in the public purse where it belongs.”