A drug dealer who tried to disguise a Taser as a torch has been jailed.

Peter Baars was arrested after police officers raided his Ashford home in March last year.

Officers found crack cocaine and heroin at the property in Sotherton, Willesborough, with a combined street value of around £8,000.

They also found two large knives and the Taser, disguised as a flashlight.

The 53-year-old was not at home at the time but was caught and arrested nearby, and officers found a phone containing suspicious messages.

Many of the messages discussed drug dealing and referred to someone known as 'P', which officers showed to be Baars.

He was charged with possession of crack cocaine and heroin with intent to supply and possession of a prohibited weapon. He denied the offences but was convicted by a jury following a trial.

Appearing at Canterbury Crown Court on Friday, he was jailed for a total of six years.

PC Alessandro Ottaviani, Kent Police's investigating officer, said: "The knives and disguised Taser found at Baars' flat show the violent means drug dealers are prepared to use as they exploit vulnerable people in our communities.

"Baars tried to deny his involvement in this illegal trade and I am pleased our thorough investigation convinced the jury of his guilt and that the court has recognised the seriousness of the offences with this sentence."