An Andover man has been jailed for six years after police discovered more than six kilograms of cocaine during searches of his car and home.
Jonathan Townsend, 40, of Stevens Green, was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court on Thursday, September 3, after admitting a series of drug and weapons offences.
Townsend was stopped by police while driving a Vauxhall Insignia on Ox Drove in Andover on March 17 this year.
During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered seven foil wraps containing Class A drugs which had been concealed inside a Mini Eggs packet underneath the driver’s seat.
Police also found a kitchen knife in the front of the vehicle.
Following Townsend’s arrest, officers carried out a search of his home in Stevens Green, where they made a much larger discovery.
Around 6kg of cocaine was recovered from the property, alongside mobile phones, weighing scales and a money-counting machine.
Townsend subsequently pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply a Class A drug, possession of a bladed article and breaching a community order.
He appeared at Winchester Crown Court on September 3, where he was sentenced to six years in prison.
Detective Constable Steve Jakes said the sentence demonstrated the determination of officers to prevent drug networks from operating in Andover.
He said: “I hope this sentence highlights that our officers will do everything in their power to ensure Andover is not targeted by drugs networks.
“We know that drug supply causes harm and misery to our communities and is linked to acquisitive crime, as well as some of the most serious violence we see.
“We are determined to keep relentlessly pursuing criminals to reduce the negative impact they have on the local community, making it safe for everyone.”