Maidstone Drug Dealer Nabbed with Heroin and Coke After Police Car Chase
Plain Clothes Police Make Major Bust
A streetwise Maidstone drug dealer has been locked up after undercover cops caught him red-handed with heroin and crack cocaine. On 19 September 2019, two off-duty officers in an unmarked car spotted a suspicious Mercedes pulling into a car park on Knightrider Street.
Suspect Tries to Flee but Gets Caught
The passenger, Rhys Costello, acted nervy while clutching two mobile phones. When told he would be searched, he pushed an officer and bolted along Knightrider Street. Officers gave chase and arrested him on Lower Stone Street.
A search revealed £40 cash and small wraps of crack and heroin on Costello. The story didn’t end there.
Huge Cash Haul and Drug Links Discovered
Back at his home, cops found £13,328 stashed in clothes. One of Costello’s phones had recent calls from known local drug users, sealing his fate.
The 29-year-old, of Knightrider Street, was charged with possession with intent to supply both drugs. He pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and was sentenced to three years and eight months inside on 25 October.
Police Warn Drug Dealers: We’re Watching
District Commander Chief Inspector Ray Quiller said: “Once again a drug dealer has been caught by proactive officers patrolling in plain clothes. We continue to be alert for those seeking to bring misery to our town through the supply of cocaine and heroin, and will not hesitate to search those acting suspiciously. Where cash is seized and suspected to be the proceeds of crime, we will of course take steps to ensure it is confiscated.”
