A drug dealer who claimed his own habit left him with poor memory has been jailed after he was caught selling cocaine inside an entertainment complex.

On March 2, 2017, Aaron Gauntlett was spotted by plain-clothed officers meeting a known drug-user at a location in Lockmeadow, Maidstone.

Once they suspected a deal had taken place patrols initially stopped the user and seized a quantity of cocaine wrapped in folded paper, which was clenched in his hand.

They then swiftly found Gauntlett, 27, who was still inside the complex. He was searched and found carrying more drugs.

A mobile phone in his possession was seized and analysis later revealed it contained messages relating to further deals. These included texts sent to potential customers advertising cocaine for sale, which stated "3 FOR £100".

When Gauntlett was arrested he denied the phone was his and claimed the drugs found on him were for personal use.

He told police he couldn't remember any detail of the alleged deal at Lockmeadow, stating his own drug habit had left him with a poor memory.

Appearing before Maidstone Crown Court Gauntlett, formerly of Upper Fant Road, pleaded guilty to charges of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs, possessing cocaine with intent to supply and possessing cocaine.

On Friday, February 23, he was sentenced to two years and six months in prison.

Chief Inspector Mick Gardner said: "Gauntlett is yet another street dealer who has paid the price for trying to operate in Maidstone.

"Our use of plain clothes officers is making it increasingly difficult for criminals to supply drugs on our streets.

"Patrols know who the users are and we are continuing to identify and arrest those who target them, on a regular basis. There will be no let up."