A man who dealt drugs from a flat with his brother has been jailed for five years.

Tomas Lavender, 23, and Jack Lavender, 25, were arrested after officers executed a warrant at their home in Grovehurst Road, Dartford, last year.

It came after local residents spotted them dealing in a nearby car park, with officers discovering a large bag of cannabis in a safe, wraps of cocaine, zip lock bags, scales and cash.

The residents also reported seeing 10 to 15 people attending the property every day, staying for a short period, and then leaving smelling of cannabis.

Both men appeared at Maidstone Crown Court on Tuesday, where Tomas was found guilty of possession with intent to supply cocaine and cannabis and sentenced to five years in prison.

Jack was found guilty of possession with intent to supply cannabis and was given a four month suspended sentence and a community service order.

Investigating officer PC Sam Dixon said: “Both brothers blighted the community with Class A and Class B drugs.

“Thanks to the information provided by residents we were able to build a case against the two men and obtain a successful prosecution at court.

“It proves that a strong relationship between the police and the community can help undermine any criminal activity.”