Two separate cocaine dealers have become the latest criminals to be jailed as part of an ongoing crackdown targeting supply networks in Tonbridge.
David Laird (left image) and Mark Greenidge were arrested more than a year apart by the Tonbridge Community Policing Team but have now been jailed on the same day for a total of almost seven years.
Laird was caught dealing in the town on 8 January 2021, after a patrol approached his stationary vehicle in Quarry Hill.
He appeared nervous, leading the constables to carry out a search. They seized three deals of cocaine from the glove box, as well as two bags of drugs concealed behind the car’s facia, along with two mobile phones.
Aged 30, Laird, of Mount Pleasant Court, Hildenborough was arrested and charged with possession of cocaine with intent to supply.
He pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and on Thursday 14 April 2022, was sentenced to two years and four months’ imprisonment.
On 10 March 2022, as part of an unrelated case, officers from the same team detained Mark Greenidge at his home in Chestnut Grove, Penge, London.
The arrest followed an investigation into the supply of cocaine facilitated by marketing text messages, linked to a dedicated phone line.
Officers proved Greenidge had been in control of the phone line since 6 November 2021 and the handset was seized when he was arrested, along with a quantity of cocaine and digital scales.
Greenidge, 33, was charged with being concerned in the supply of cocaine and pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court. He was sentenced to four years and two months’ imprisonment.
Dealers relentlessly pursued
PC James O’Gorman said: ‘Two more dealers intent on supplying cocaine throughout our communities have been jailed following the relentless work of our local officers.‘Whilst criminals may believe they can remain anonymous, through the use of burner type phones, we are determined that both our uniformed and plain clothes patrols will continue to identify those attempting to operate this destructive trade.‘Our message to those who choose to deal drugs in west Kent remains absolutely clear; we will track you down and ultimately you will go to prison.’