A drug dealer from Newport, who was caught with a large quantity of cocaine in his car following a police stop, will spend more than two-and-a-half years in prison.

Corey Casagrande, 34, of Partridge Way, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court on Wednesday 24 February after pleading guilty to possession with intent supply a controlled drug of class A.

He was travelling on the A449 in Monmouthshire on Wednesday 9 December when officers deployed a tactical stop on his car.

A search of the vehicle he was driving uncovered a quantity of cocaine, while cash and mobile phones were also seized.

DC Karl Smith, the officer in the case said:

“Drugs have no place in our society. They can often ruin lives and can have a huge detrimental impact on our communities.

“Casagrande took the decision to involve himself in drug dealing and supply; he is now facing the consequence of his actions.

“Hopefully this substantial sentence will deter others who are considering getting themselves involved in the supply of drugs.

“Gwent Police is committed to tackling this form of illegal activity in our communities. We will continue to bring offenders who are caught in the drug supply chain in our communities to justice.

“If you’re concerned about drug supply in your area, report it to us.”

Casagrande received a sentence of two years and eight months in prison.