Police take the fizz out of Aylesbury drug dealer's cocaine stash hidden in Coca-Cola can

Verneque Valenrino, aged 27, of The Causeway, Staines-upon-Thames, was sentenced to two years and four months' imprisonment at Aylesbury Crown Court on Friday (23/10), police announced on Tuesday.

Valenrino pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply a Class A drug (cocaine), acquiring, using or possessing criminal property, and using a motor vehicle without third-party insurance at a hearing at the same court on 3 October this year.

The court also ordered Valenrino to pay a £228 victim surcharge. A total of £570 in cash seized during the investigation was forfeited under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, while the drugs and mobile phone recovered by officers were made subject to forfeiture and destruction orders.

On 16 July this year, officers from the Buckinghamshire Local Proactive Team stopped a blue Honda Jazz in Pine Street, Aylesbury, after witnessing what they believed to be a drug deal.

During a search, officers discovered 24 wraps of cocaine concealed inside a Coca-Cola can. They also seized a mobile phone and £570 in cash.

Valenrino was arrested the same day and was charged the following day.

Investigating officer PC Levi Fensom, of the Buckinghamshire Local Proactive Team, said: “This sentence demonstrates our commitment to disrupting those involved in the supply of illegal drugs in our communities.

“Valenrino attempted to conceal cocaine inside a disguised drinks can, but thanks to the vigilance and proactive work of officers, the drugs were recovered before they could be sold.

“Drug dealing causes significant harm and is often linked to wider organised criminality, exploitation and violence. We will continue to target those involved in the supply of drugs and bring offenders before the courts.

“I hope this case reassures our communities that we will take robust action against offenders and remove drugs from our streets.”