A Darlington man has been sentenced after being linked to plans to import drugs from the US after a search found 'substantial' amounts of drugs. 

Aidan Sayers, only 22 is now behind bars for the role he played in the illegal importation of Class A and B drugs into England from the United States of America.

The Northern Echo: Darlington man sentenced after he’s linked to imported drugs from the United States

The total worth of the importation is estimated to be almost £93,000.

The North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) first launched an investigation last August, where they searched an address in Darlington after they had received reports relating to drug importation.

According to Durham police a ‘substantial’ number of drugs and paraphernalia, including large quantities of cocaine, MDMA, cannabis products and psilocybin (more commonly known as mushrooms), were found at the Darlington location.

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A spokesperson for Durham Constabulary added: “Over £38,000 cash was also seized during the search, all resulting in Sayers finding himself in handcuffs in the back of a police car.

“Sayers, of Chaldron Court, Darlington, was subsequently charged with importation of Class B drugs, possession with intent to supply Class A and Class B drugs and money laundering.”

The 22-year-old then appeared at Teesside Crown Court on March 27, and was sentenced after entering an earlier guilty plea.

Sayers pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A and Class B drugs, importation of Class B, possession of criminal property, and being concerned in the supply of both Class A and Class B, and he was sentenced to six years behind bars.

NEROCU Detective Sergeant Neil Lovat, said: “This is yet another great outcome for our North East communities and the wider country.

“This activity is part of our ongoing commitment to tackle drug importation, supply, and distribution in our region – and it will continue.

NEROCU PC Michael Hanratty added: “This case should serve as a warning to anyone who believes they can carry out drug dealing with impunity. We do not tolerate drug-related crime in our region and will continue to use every tool at our disposal to pursue offenders and dismantle the criminal organisations behind them.

“Under the banner of Operation Sentinel we remain committed to tackling all forms of serious and organised crime impacting the North East.”