A DRUG dealer found with £15,000 of cocaine in his car has been jailed for six years.

Marcus Mounsey, of Panfield Lane, Braintree, had previously admitted possession with intent to supply cocaine.

He was sentenced to six years in prison today, Thursday, March 9, at Chelmsford Crown Court, .

A confiscation order also means the drugs will be destroyed.

The court heard when specialist officers from Essex Police’s North Disruptor team stopped and spoke to Mounsey, 44, near his home in August last year, he appeared nervous and evasive.

Echo: Marcus Mounsey, of Panfield Lane, Braintree, had previously admitted possession with intent to supply cocaineMarcus Mounsey, of Panfield Lane, Braintree, had previously admitted possession with intent to supply cocaine (Image: Essex Police)

They searched Mounsey and his car under section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act and located a carrier bag in the driver’s footwell containing 117 wraps of cocaine, valued at about £15,000.

They also recovered cash and a mobile phone.

A search of Mounsey’s home saw more mobile phones, weighing scales, dealer bags, records and anabolic steroid pills, located by officers.

Investigating officer PC Ryan Gilroy said: “When we arrested Mounsey, I believe he was ready to start dealing as we found the wraps in a carrier bag in the driver’s footwell.

“So we were able to take an entire load of drugs off the streets of the Braintree district before it could be distributed, which will have caused significant disruption to the drugs line Mounsey was associated with."

He added: “Drug supply and drug use cause untold misery.

“We won't tolerate people exploiting the vulnerable in our communities and we will do everything we can to target drug dealers and their suppliers.

“But we can’t do this without help and information from the public. So, if you know anything about drugs or drug dealing, please tell us.”

Echo: Mounsey was found with £15,000 of cocaine in his car Mounsey was found with £15,000 of cocaine in his car (Image: Essex Police)

A police spokesman added: “The trade in illegal drugs, no matter which class they are in, is inextricably linked to violence.

“The proceeds from such drugs lead to more criminal activity which affects whole communities.

“We need you to help us combat this - if you believe someone is involved in drugs, or you have information about drugs or drug dealing, please report it to us.

“Ring 999 if it’s an emergency or a crime in progress.

“Otherwise, you can report it online at essex.police.uk/ro, ring 101 or contact Crimstoppers anonymously.”