by Keith Hunt

A drug dealer caught on CCTV cameras selling cocaine and heroin to addicts has been sentenced to two-and-a-half years youth custody.

Julian Miskin travelled from London to Chatham to ply the illicit trade at the rear of Staples in the town.

Maidstone Crown Court heard a police officer went to Medway Council’s CCTV offices on August 3 to try to identify the dealer seen handing out drugs and then going to an address in Manor Road.

While there, he saw the man on live coverage of the area. He was seen handing over packages and putting money in his pocket.

Jo Cope, prosecuting, said the officer went to the area and detained Miskin.

He was searched and 19 £10 wraps of cocaine and heroin fell from the bottom of his trousers. He had £115 cash.

The 20-year-old, of Woolwich, south east London, told police he was unemployed and needed to eat.

Philippa Beswick, defending, said Miskin, who admitted possessing drugs with intent to supply, had been dealing for two days.

She submitted that a suspended sentence could be imposed.
But Judge Martin Joy said those who dealt drugs could expect severe punishment.

“It is quite plain that during the course of two days you were busy and well at it in dealing cocaine and heroin,” he told Miskin.

“It has to be understood those who deal in heroin and cocaine commit an extremely serious offence. It is undermining of individuals and society.

“It is a filthy and degrading trade as well as a filthy and degrading business.”