A cocaine dealer who ran from police officers to avoid arrest has been jailed.

Christopher Quested had been reported to police at around 5am on January 1 after refusing to let door staff search him at a bar in Market Buildings, Maidstone.

As officers arrived, the 26-year-old fled into Maidstone High Street, throwing a tablet computer to the floor.

When police caught up and searched Quested, they discovered five small bags of cocaine and a grey locking knife.

He was arrested and police searched his home in Riverhead Close, Maidstone.

A shoe box with 21 bags of cocaine and weighing scales were discovered.

Quested was charged with possession of cocaine with intent to supply and possessing a bladed article in a public place.

He admitted both charges and last Friday was sentenced to two years and six months in prison.

Investigating officer, Det Sgt Jo Hazelwood said: "Quested was looking to deal drugs in Maidstone over New Year’s Eve.

"Having been turned away by door staff, he was caught when he tried to run away from attending officers and then failed to destroy evidence by smashing his computer.

"His prison sentence reinforces the message that our town centre officers work closely with door staff, and those who seek to supply drugs at pubs and clubs in Maidstone will be brought to justice."