HEROIN addict Kameldeep Atkin has been jailed for four years for drugs offences in Southampton.

Prosecutor Mary Aspinall-Miles told Southampton Crown Court how officers raided Atkin's home in 2005 and seized quantities of crack cocaine, heroin, methadone and dihydrocodine.

The 28-year-old denied the allegations when he appeared in court and had bail extended pending trial.

But he disappeared for 18 months, hiding out in London, until police found him when they raided another property in Southampton. Officers caught him with enough heroin to make almost 100 deals.

In mitigation, Roderick Blain told the court how Atkin had fallen into the wrong crowd and got involved in drugs.

"He should have stood trial but because of his chaotic lifestyle he disappeared back to London."

Atkin, of Archers Road, Shirley, pleaded guilty to possessing heroin, crack cocaine and dihydrocodine with intent to supply and possessing methadone.

Also admitting he failed to surrendered to bail, he was jailed for four years and two months.

Judge John Boggis QC said after reading medical reports, he wouldn't be surprised if Atkin had not caused permanent damage to his health because of his drugs.