A drug dealer who was arrested after a high-speed police chase has been jailed for five years.

When officers searched Thomas Barry’s home in Waterfields, Leatherhead after his arrest, they found two knives, stab vests and wraps of Class A and Class B drugs.

The 19-year-old had fled from police officers in a black Vauxhall Astra on April 4, reaching speeds of more than 80mph, but was arrested the following day.

Having got off his moped in Greens Lane, Epsom, Barry was recognised by officers from Surrey Police’s drug-related crime and cross-border drug dealing team, Operation Viking.

The officers, who were in an unmarked car, thought he was acting suspiciously behind a row of shops, and called for support when Barry ran off.

He was arrested nearby and later charged with dangerous driving and failing to stop in relation to the offence the day before, and possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs.

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Drugs and weapons found at Barry's house

Barry pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs, dangerous driving, driving without insurance and without a licenceat Guildford Crown Court on Thursday, May 19.

He was sentenced to a total of five years and three months behind bars, and was given a five-year driving ban.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Preston said: “Thomas Barry showed absolutely no regard for the public’s safety while speeding through the area which is why we called off the pursuit as it simply became too dangerous to continue.

“However, we caught up with him the following day thanks to a good spot from a team who were out proactively patrolling the area and thanks to their quick team work with colleagues nearby.

“Some of the items we found in his home, including two large knives and a stab vest go to show what lengths some drug dealers will go to protect themselves and just how dangerous it can be. If you’re getting involved in this kind of lifestyle, just ask yourself is it worth risking your life for?”