A 34-year-old man from Hitchin has been jailed for three years for a drug dealing offence after a random police stop and search caught him red-handed.

John Disney was found with a kilo of amphetamine when police carried out a routine stop and search on March 12.

Following his arrest, a raid on his home in Bedford Road later that day then uncovered a stash of cannabis and drug paraphernalia.

Disney admitted having possession of a Class B drug with intent to supply when appearing at Cambridge Crown Court on March 20, and returned to the court on Friday when he was handed a three-year prison sentence.

Investigating officer Det Con Ben Dixon said: “Drug related crime in North Herts is low and we intend to keep it that way. John Disney received a significant custodial sentence and I hope it sends a message out to those involved in drug related crime that we are determined to drive it out of North Herts and anyone arrested and charged in connection with drugs offences can expect a considerable sentence from court.”

He added: “Drug dealing can adversely affect local communities and if members of the public suspect that someone who lives in their local area is involved in drugs or is dealing in them, please do not hesitate to contact us as soon as possible.

“Information from members of the public helps us to crack down on drug related crime.”

If you see a crime in progress dial 999, otherwise call police on 101. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.