Knife-Wielding Drug Dealer Nabbed in Luton Road Sting
Plainclothes police swooped on Rimel Hanchard on 20 October 2023 in Luton Road after spotting him hop into a taxi linked to drug dealing. The 22-year-old was swiftly pulled from the cab, sparking a dramatic search.
Big Haul: Cocaine, Heroin & £630 Cash Seized
Officers found a 25cm knife tucked in Hanchard’s waistband. They then uncovered over 200 wraps of cocaine and heroin stashed in three packages inside his trousers. A hefty £630 in cash was also seized on the spot.
From Orpington to Maidstone Court: Hanchard’s Downfall
Originally from Orpington, Greater London, Hanchard was arrested and charged with possession of cocaine and heroin with intent to supply, carrying a knife in public, and possessing criminal property.
He pleaded guilty to all charges at Maidstone Crown Court. On 1 May 2024, the court slammed him with a 2½-year prison sentence. The seized cash was confiscated.
Kent Police Hit Back: ‘Dealer Brought Danger to Chatham Streets’
PC Oliver Matcham of Kent Police’s County Lines and Gangs Team said: “This dealer travelled to Kent armed with a large knife and intended to push significant amounts of class A drugs, making a tidy profit while causing misery for the communities of Chatham.
“Bringing such a dangerous weapon onto the streets posed a major risk until our proactive officers stopped him. A prison sentence was the only fitting outcome for his criminal activities.”
