“Careless” driver jailed for six years after cops find cocaine valued at £40,000

“Careless” Patrick Sweeney was stopped by officers on patrol in Manvers Way last November, after they spotted him using his mobile phone behind the wheel.

They pulled the 59-year-old man over and, after noticing a smell of suspected cannabis, searched the vehicle.

A “large block of a white substance” was found under the front passenger seat, as well as a joint and cash. 

When Sweeney was searched, police found a  mobile phone and a larger amount of cash. 

He was arrested and brought into custody.

The white substance was forensically tested and found to be cocaine, with an estimated street value of £40,000.

PC Darren Walker said: “Sweeney’s careless actions behind the wheel led to the seizure of a significant amount of Class A drugs, which we know has a devastating impact on our communities. 

“Drug supply and dealing wreaks havoc and is often tied to many other forms of criminality that cause harm.

“Sweeney has now been jailed for his crimes and dangerous drugs taken off the streets of Rotherham. 

“Our work will continue to identify, target and disrupt those individuals who would seek to supply illegal substances in our town.”

Sweeney, of no fixed abode, appeared at Sheffield Crown Court last Friday, where he was sentenced to six years in prison. 

A collection order was also made under the Proceeds of Crime Act for more than £40,000. 

He pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A drugs at a hearing last year.