A drug dealer who was caught with 39kg of cocaine in his car, worth almost £4 million, has been jailed.
The seizure is one of the most significant drugs seizures in Cumbria to date.
Courtney Gaston-Hird, 34, of London Road, Sleaford was sentenced to 10 years in prison at Carlisle Crown Court for possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.
Officers from Cumbria’s Roads Policing Unit stopped his car on Wednesday 3 June near Penrith.
Upon stopping the vehicle and speaking to Courtney, officers had cause to search his vehicle under the misuse of drugs act. He then became resistant and made off from officers.
Following a short foot pursuit the defendant was detained and arrested.
The search of the vehicle was conducted where officers uncovered 39 ‘blocks’ white powder which subsequent testing confirmed to be cocaine, with an estimated street value of almost £4 million.
The seizure forms part of forms part of Operation Alliance – Cumbria Constabulary’s ongoing response to protect the county against serious and organised crime.
A spokesperson for Westmorland and Furness’ Community and Serious Organised Crime (CSOC) team who investigated the offences, said: “This vehicle stop proves what an important power these are to police, meaning we were able to prevent these Class A drugs from hitting the streets of Cumbria, or further afield.
“This seizure has prevented almost £4 million from falling into the hands of organised criminals who exploit the vulnerable for their own gain.
“I hope this sentencing shows we will not tolerate criminals dealing drugs in our county and we will use all of our powers to bring those who do before the courts.”
Anyone with any information on drug supply in their area is asked to contact Cumbria Police on 101, or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online: Independent UK charity taking crime information anonymously | Crimestoppers
