A WOMAN caught in a police undercover operation dealing drugs has been jailed for two years, despite a judge hearing she was making good progress with her own addiction.

Jemma Dray’s lawyer argued that she should be allowed to continue with drug rehabilitation because the probation service was satisfied she had the necessary motivation to succeed.

However, Judge Martin Joy told Dray, of Gravesham Court, Gravesend, that she could only receive a custodial sentence.

The 24-year-old admitted 12 charges of supplying heroin and cocaine in Gravesend during the operation in June and July 2006.

Jo Cope, prosecuting at Maidstone Crown Court, said a book containing details of drug deals was found at Dray’s home. She said she had been supplying for a dealer for about a month and used the cash to fund her own habit.

Mrs Cope said Dray had convictions for dishonesty and served a jail sentence. She was given a community order and drug rehabilitation last October.

Lynette Caulder, defending, said Dray was arrested during a large-scale operation to crack down on class A drugs. The main dealer was deported without being charged.

He had contacted Dray and asked her to deal drugs. He was, claimed the lawyer, not a man who could be crossed. Dray could not see any way out. At one point she was badly beaten.

Dray’s boyfriend also had difficulties with drugs but they had made good progress together.

While in prison she asked to be put on a drug-free wing with regular testing.

“She came out drug free but had difficulties staying that way in the real world,” said Miss Caulder.

“She is still progressing. She is still drug free. She has repeatedly attempted to sort herself out. The probation service is satisfied she is motivated.”

“There is a determined attempt to break the habit,” said Miss Caulder. “It comes down to the mercy of the court. Sending her to prison will destroy her progress.”

However, Judge Joy told Dray: “There has to be a clear and consistent message that those who commit these offences will be severely punished.”