A Ford Ka driver pulled over by police in relation to an assault was transporting £60,000 of heroin.

John Small was stopped in Hoath Way, Gillingham, on September 5 last year.

He was found to have no licence or insurance and the vehicle was seized and transferred to a compound near Rochester.

The 57-year-old was taken into custody to be quizzed over the assault.

The following day, Small visited the centre and became agitated when staff refused to handover a rucksack which had been in the vehicle.

Police were called and discovered two kilograms of heroin in large rectangular blocks.

The bag also contained paperwork in Small's name.

He was arrested again on September 23 and charged with possessing heroin with intent to supply.

Small, of Plurenden Lane, High Halden, Ashford, later pleaded not guilty at Maidstone Crown Court but was convicted by a jury.

Last Thursday he was sentenced to six years in prison.

Investigating officer DC Steve Brown said: "The quantity of drugs seized had an estimated street value of up to £60,000 and demonstrated clearly that Small played a significant role in the supply of heroin in Medway and beyond.

"He made repeated, angry and desperate demands to staff to return the rucksack, providing further evidence he knew of its contents.

"The suffering and devastation dealers like Small cause to individuals, their families and to local communities is often far reaching.

"Thankfully, the courts have passed a significant sentence, which reflects the seriousness and impact of this crime."

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