Jail for Cheltenham drug dealer

A Cheltenham drug dealer, who did a runner during his trial, has been jailed for 5 and a half years.

24-year-old Asa Martin was arrested by police on junction 9 of the M5 in July 2008. He was found with crack cocaine worth around £6000 and charged with possession of a class A drug with intent to supply.

During his trial he did and bunk and was found guilty of the offence in his absence.

He was eventually arrested again in South Wales before being sentenced at Bristol Crown Court.

Cheltenham Police say they will continue to work with their partner agencies to tackle drugs offences in the area and would like to encourage local residents to continue reporting any information about the use or supply of illegal drugs.

Information can be reported to police on 0845 090 1234 or anonymously to Crimestoppers