Kent Police was told on January 21 that a drone had been found inside the grounds of HMP Maidstone with a package containing illegal items including a stash of cannabis.
Forensic tests led detectives to an address in Plaistow on October 2.
There they found 50 wraps of suspected cocaine and arrested a 27-year-old man on suspicion of conveying a prohibited article into prison and possession with intent to supply class A drugs.
Enquiries are ongoing and, following interview, the man was returned to prison for breaching the terms of his licence for a previous conviction.
Detective Inspector Scott Machin said: “Criminal activity behind bars doesn’t just affect those inside – it can fuel violence and prolong criminal networks that pose a threat to our communities.
“By targeting those who try to smuggle contraband into prisons, we are disrupting organised crime at its roots and helping to make our streets safer.
“We have a very good relationship with the prisons in our county and share a strong commitment to protecting the public.”
