Drug Dealer Busted with Cocaine Stash Hidden in Magnetic Box
On April 17, 2022, community police in Tunbridge Wells pulled over a Fiat Punto on Trench Road driven by Aloisios Varthalitis. Their suspicions of drug dealing quickly proved true.
Magnetic Box Reveals Nine Bags of Cocaine
A thorough search uncovered a magnetic box hidden under the driver’s side door. Inside were nine bags of cocaine. Officers also seized £320 in cash and two mobile phones before arresting the 24-year-old.
More Drugs Found at Home
A search of Varthalitis’ Grosvenor Road home turned up another magnetic box containing an additional bag of cocaine. The total drugs seized had a street value of around £400.
When police examined the confiscated phones, they found numerous text messages about drug supply in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge.
Dealer Sent Down for Nearly Three Years
Varthalitis pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine with intent to supply and possession of criminal property at Maidstone Crown Court. On January 23, 2023, he was sentenced to two years and eleven months behind bars. His car and cash were forfeited.
“Another dealer who has brought misery to the streets of west Kent towns is quite rightly starting a prison sentence,” said Maidstone CID Investigator Amanda Lissenden.
“Our local police officers are unwavering in their efforts to apprehend these criminals and, as demonstrated in this case, will conduct extensive searches to find their drugs – wherever they may be hidden.”
