A drug pedlar caught twice in Chelmsford with class A drugs for suppling was jailed for three years and nine months on Friday.

David Jenkins, 30, of Woolmer Green, Basildon, admitted possessing cocaine and heroin with intent to supply and having more for his own use.

Judge Chris Ball Q.C. said, "In sentencing you I have to have regard to the greater public interest in terms of deterring and punishing those who are peddling in misery and often death."

Peter Fenn, prosecuting, said police stopped Jenkins driving a car in Moulsham Street, Chelmsford, at about 9pm on October 31.

He produced a packet of cigarettes which contained heroin. Cocaine, scales and numerous used wraps containing traces of cocaine were found in the car.

His Basildon address was searched, other items were seized and Jenkins admitted possessing heroin and cocaine for his own use.

A "dealer list" was found in his car which he said related to staff who worked for him, their hours and money worked.

Two weeks later, on November 15 at 8.45pm police again spoke to Jenkins after he parked his car at the Beehive pub, Chelmsford.

Once more he produced a cigarette packet containing cocaine. He also had plastic bags containing the drug. His car contained a dealer list, scales and £870.

He admitted possessing cocaine with intent to supply that night at £50 per .7gms and the list referred to his customers. He said he had been supplying drugs for about two weeks. His past record included drug related offences.

Barney Branston for Jenkins said he started using soft drugs 13 years ago and progressed to craving a bigger buzz from crack cocaine

Mr Branston said, "He was driven by his craving." The sum of £870 was forfeit.

Published Monday, January 27, 2003

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