A DRUG dealer who tried to dispose of nearly half a kilogram of cocaine in the middle of a County Durham village has been jailed.

Jason Mawson was stopped by officers in his car in Tow Law on August 20 but fled the scene with the 488g block of cocaine.

The 52-year-old, of Grey Street, Crook, was caught by pursuing officers.

He was sentenced at Durham Crown Court to four years and eight months in prison for possession with intent to supply a Class A drug.

Acting Detective Inspector Amanda Howe, of the force’s Specialist Crime Operations Unit, welcomed the sentence.

She said: “The drugs were estimated to be worth £24,000 but much more if they had been sold on the street.

“I hope that this sentence sends a clear message to those who are tempted to become involved in drugs criminality.

“Durham Constabulary will not tolerate individuals being embroiled in the supply of drugs which impacts upon and causes harm to communities.”

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