A Dagenham drug dealer who used a 17-year-old girl to carry crack cocaine and heroin around for him to avoid detection has been jailed.

Marco Nunes, 26, of Ibscott Close, was caught after police pulled him over while he was driving with the girl in Medway, Kent, on February 2 this year.

Maidstone Crown Court heard the pair were taken into custody where the teenager was found in possession of crack cocaine and heroin.

A large quantity of cash was found hidden inside one of Nunes’ socks and text messages on a phone found in his car showed he was concerned in the supply of drugs.

The girl was released with no action and Nunes was charged with intent to supply heroin and possession with intent to supply crack cocaine.

He was found guilty last week was jailed for eight years.

Det Con James Dark, investigating officer, said: “Nunes was responsible for these drugs and used the teenager as a way to deal drugs within Medway without having them in his possession.

“He continued to deny the drugs were his and even tried to shift the blame onto the young girl, however the jury rightly saw through him.

I’m pleased he has received a significant sentence for his crimes. The fact he was happy for her to take the blame for him cannot be ignored and is rightly reflected in this sentence.”