Drug dealer behind bars (From Daily Echo)

Romsey cocaine dealer jailed for 18 months

1:00pm Wednesday 8th February 2012 in Crime

A Romsey man, who admitted supplying close friends and associates with cocaine, was jailed for 18 months.

Richard Ward said in his basis of plea he had been under pressure to settle his drug debts, so he agreed to supply other users.

He was arrested after police saw him near a pub and thought he was under the influence of drink and drugs.

He denied having drugs but when warned he might be strip searched, he admitted he was carrying cocaine in a black pouch in his underpants.

Prosecutor Eleanor Fargin told Southampton Crown Court the drugs were worth up to £680.

When police searched his home, they found traces of cocaine on scales and bags.

Ward, 33, of Mountbatten Avenue, Romsey, admitted possession with intent to supply.