An Isle of Wight man was caught by police during a “drug exchange” which saw him in possession of heroin and almost 100 Diazepam pills.

James Smith, of Green Street, Ryde, attended the IW Magistrates’ Court on September 20 and pleaded guilty to possession of Diazepam (Class C) and heroin (Class A). 

Lauren McConnell, prosecuting, said a police officer spotted the 40-year-old during a “drug exchange” on Pyle Street in Newport at 1.45pm on October 24 last year.

The court heard that Smith was found to have 99 circular green tablets of Diazepam, which he claimed was his medication, and a foil wrap containing brown powder – later confirmed to be heroin.

Ms McConnell told magistrates Smith has 20 convictions for 41 offences, which include three previous drug offences. 

Oscar Vincent, defending, said his client was also in court in July 2020 for a “very straightforward simple possession” of a Class A substance.

A representative of the probation service told the court Smith has missed appointments and has not started his rehabilitation days requirement.

The representative added that Smith claims drugs are not an issue but admits to still using heroin and has attended probation meetings while under the influence.

Magistrates handed Smith a £120 fine and ordered him to pay £85 in costs and a £48 surcharge.