A cocaine dealer caught red handed after a car chase.

Paul Gregory, 40, of Railway Street, Gillingham, was sentenced to two-and-a-half years at Maidstone Crown Court yesterday after admitting possession with intent to supply the Class A drug.

The court was told how in September two officers were on a patrol when at around 9pm a car came to their attention in Station Road, Rainham.

As the officers approached the vehicle it sped away from them.

Officers pursued it towards Upchurch where it came to a stop.

Gregory and a passenger were detained under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act and officers found a plastic container containing two deal bags of white powder at Gregory's feet.

The passenger — a 29-year-old man from Gillingham who is currently on bail — was also found to have a single small deal bag of white powder rolled inside a £20 note hidden inside his wallet.

Both men were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

Officers carried out a search of an address associated to Gregory last month and inside found items including digital scales, a jar containing white powder, numerous deal bags and straws cut to the shape of spoons with powder residue on the ends.

Following the search a 27-year-old woman from Gillingham was arrested on suspicion of drug offences and remains under investigation.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Richard Sears said: "Gregory’s sentence reflects his level of drug dealing. He dealt in order to profit from vulnerable people and would have continued to do so had officers not been suspicious of the vehicle.

"I hope his sentenced acts as a deterrent to others who may wish to engage in such criminal behaviour."