Sussex Police made a substantial seizure of illegal drugs and cash amounting to nearly £1 million in St Leonards over a three-day period.
The operation began on Friday, May 19, when 38-year-old Danny Wilder was spotted acting suspiciously on Cloudesley Road. Upon his arrest for suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, a small quantity of cocaine and cash were found in his possession.
A subsequent search of Wilder’s residence on Vale Road yielded a staggering 10 kg of cocaine, 16 kg of cannabis, and approximately £30,000 in cash. The seized drugs are estimated to have a street value nearing £930,000.
The suspect was charged with possession with intent to supply Class A and Class B drugs and money laundering and was remanded in custody. Wilder pled guilty to all charges on June 19 at Lewes Crown Court. His sentencing is scheduled for July 28.
Only three days following Wilder’s arrest, another significant cash seizure was made. On May 22, officers searched a property on Beauford Road, uncovering around £98,000 in cash. A 33-year-old man from St Leonards was arrested on suspicion of money laundering. He has been released on conditional bail pending ongoing investigations.
Detective Inspector Gavin Patch said: “This is a significant seizure of harmful substances that would have had a hugely destructive impact on our communities, along with over £100,000 in suspected illicitly gained assets.
“Every gram of drugs seized, every criminal behind bars and every vulnerable person safeguarded makes a huge difference.
“Illegal drug supply will absolutely not be tolerated in Sussex and we will continue to work closely with our partners and other forces to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.”
Members of the public are encouraged to report any crime or suspicion to Sussex Police either online or via 101. For those wishing to remain anonymous, they can report through the independent charity Crimestoppers online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111. In an emergency, the public is reminded to always dial 999.
