Drug Dealer Busted After Early Morning Police Chase – Lands Over Three Years Behind Bars
Spotted Trying to Dodge Police at 3.30am
Ricky Dent, 42, made a desperate bid to escape cops when spotted driving suspiciously in Walton-on-Thames just after 3am on 25 March. Officers noticed his evasive manoeuvres and quickly checked his car’s details using their mobile data terminal. The vehicle hit the radar for no insurance and an expired MOT, prompting the police to pull him over.
Dodgy Excuses and a Stinking Cannabis Smell
Dent claimed he had only bought the car that very day but couldn’t produce any proof, saying he’d forgotten his wallet. That raised more red flags. Officers also sniffed a strong scent of cannabis inside the car. Dent was detained under the Misuse of Drugs Act and searched. They found cash, scales, a knife, and a positive cocaine drug swipe, leading to his immediate arrest.
Caught Red-Handed with Cocaine and Heroin
In custody, a further search revealed hidden cocaine and heroin in Dent’s clothes. When grilled, he admitted owning the drugs but bizarrely said he was just collecting them for someone else. His story didn’t cut any ice at Guildford Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to:
- Two counts of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs
- Possession of a bladed article
- Possession of Class B drugs
Dent was handed a hefty three-and-a-half-year prison sentence on 31 May.
Police Warn Drug Dealers: We’re Watching You
“I hope this sends a strong message to anyone supplying drugs that this crime will not be tolerated in our communities and you will be caught,” said Inspector Dallas McDermott, Elmbridge Borough Commander.
He praised the alert officers for their quick thinking and urged residents to report any suspicions about drug dealing. “Even the smallest clue could help us shut down illegal activity and keep our streets safe,” he added.
If you know of drug dealing or anti-social behaviour in your area, contact Surrey Police at www.surrey.police.uk, call 101, or dial 999 in an emergency.