A MAN found to have a large amount of heroin hidden down his trousers while driving a car has been jailed.

Sean Lauder was pulled over by officers from Durham Police’s Road Policing Unit, in Bishop Auckland, on Tuesday November 16, last year.

Durham Crown Court was told that the officers were acting on information, following reports that the vehicle was linked to several incidents.

Caroline McGurk, prosecuting, said in the stop and search that was conducted, the officers discovered a bag hidden down Lauder’s trousers.

Examination of its contents subsequently confirmed it contained 241g of heroin.

Lauder was arrested immediately at the scene on suspicion of possession with intent to supply a class A drug.

The 43-year-old, of Weardale Crescent, Tow Law, formerly of Willington, admitted a charge of possession of the drug with intent to supply.

He also admitted two bail act offences, relating to failure to attend a court hearing and breaching curfew conditions.

Judge Ray Singh imposed a total sentence of 26 months and ordered forfeiture and destruction of the recovered drugs.

PC Joshua Chew, from Bishop Auckland CID, said: “I welcome the custodial sentence imposed by the court.

“There are too many lives ruined by this addiction.

“Heroin has a direct link to the commission of other crimes that have a serious and lasting effect on society.”

He added: “I hope Sean Lauder reflects on his behaviour during his time in prison and chooses a different path upon his release.”

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