An Eastbourne man has been sentenced to five-and-a-half years in prison after a police search uncovered a revolver, bullets, and cocaine in connection with an attempt to import cannabis through Dover.
Daniel Rees, 51, of Hodcombe Close, was handed the sentence at Lewes Crown Court on 30 January after being found guilty of multiple offences, including the improper importation of goods – namely Class B cannabis – into the UK, possession of a prohibited firearm, possession of ammunition, and possession of Class A drugs, namely cocaine.
The investigation began when 950 grams of herbal cannabis was intercepted at Dover, leading police to search Rees’ car and home on 12 December 2023. During the search of his vehicle, officers discovered cocaine. A further search of the residence he was occupying at the time in Anguilla Close, Eastbourne, led to the shocking discovery of a revolver and ammunition concealed in a sock.
Chief Inspector Simon Yates emphasised the importance of the case in tackling crime within the community. He said: “This is an example of our ongoing work with partners to take weapons off our streets and take robust action against drugs and the anti-social impact they have on our communities.
“We work tirelessly with partners from the Violence Reduction Partnership and Border Force not only to keep drugs and weapons off the street, but to then work with offenders to re-educate and divert them away from these offences that cause considerable harm to the community.
“This sentence sends a clear message to others, this will not be tolerated.”
