A 50-YEAR-OLD man has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years imprisonment following his conviction for a number of drug offences two years ago.

Swindon Crown Court heard yesterday how a Misuse of Drugs Act warrant was executed at Julian Cound's property in Audley Road on July 30, 2012 and he was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class B drugs and being concerned in the supply of class A drugs after a large quantity was discovered on site.

However, after he failed to answer bail officers carried out a section 32 PACE search and later arrested and charged him for intent to supply class A drugs on April 5, 2013.

Cound was believed to have fled the country after being convicted of possession with intent to supply cannabis, amphetamine, MDM and cocaine in October 2014.

The court also heard how officers continued to make enquiries about Cound in a bid to see him sentenced and on Friday, September 30, he was arrested in Chippenham. 

PC Simon Margetts, of the Dedicated Crime Team, said: "Two years ago, a trial was held in Cound’s absence after he failed to appear at court, which meant that yesterday he was able to be immediately sentenced to four-and-a-half years imprisonment for offences committed back in 2012 and 2013.

"This case is an example of officers continuing to ensure justice is served, irrespective of how much time has passed since the offences were committed, and despite the great lengths Cound went to in a bid to avoid facing up to his actions.

"Drugs ruin lives – it is not a victimless crime which is what many people may think. Drug activity can blight communities and bring misery to people’s lives.

"Today’s sentencing means a drug dealer has been removed from the streets of Chippenham and can no longer supply drugs to vulnerable people within our communities.

"I would encourage anyone who suspects drug activity in their area to report it via 101 – we will always act on information we receive."