£30k Drug Haul Seized in Tunbridge Wells Woodland
Police dog sniffs out nearly 220 grams of cocaine in a major bust near Tunbridge Wells. The haul sparked the jailing of 21-year-old Aden Maynard, a key player in a vast drug network running through west Kent.
Suspicious Behaviour Sparks Police Chase
On July 13, 2024, police spotted Maynard acting dodgy outside a property on Hornbeam Avenue, Tunbridge Wells. Carrying a shoulder bag, he bolted into nearby woodland when officers approached. Caught quickly, Maynard had ditched the bag and insisted he was “just out for a walk.”
But police dog Charlie wasn’t fooled. After nearly half an hour, Charlie sniffed out the stash concealed near an abandoned fridge. Hidden in dense brambles, the bag contained drugs worth over £30,000 — including cocaine, ketamine, and cannabis — plus £1,400 in cash, burner phones, and a lock knife.
Phone Evidence Links Maynard to Drug Ring
Analysis of seized phones connected Maynard to the “AD Line” drug operation. CCTV footage from shops in Swanley and Westerham showed him topping up phones linked to the network. A receipt for a TV and oven found in the bag led police to an Orpington store where Maynard was caught on camera making the purchase.
Dealer Sentenced to 3 Years and 4 Months
With no fixed address, Maynard pleaded guilty to:
- Supplying cocaine, ketamine and cannabis
- Possession with intent to supply
- Carrying a knife in public
- Possessing criminal property (cash seized)
On December 2, 2024, Maidstone Crown Court jailed him for three years and four months.
Police Praise Canine and Team Effort
“Maynard was clearly panicked, but Police Dog Charlie’s persistence found the hidden bag after 30 minutes,” said PC James Heaver. “This was a major seizure, and Maynard’s phone gave us rock-solid proof of his role in a sophisticated supply chain.”
Community Cheers Major Crackdown
The bust deals a blow to the drug trade in west Kent. Police urge the public to keep reporting suspicious activity — helping smash drug crime and keep communities safe.
