A DEALER who had drugs with a street value of more than £6,500 has been jailed for three years.

Melvyn Applewhaite, of Avon Place, Reading, was found in possession of cocaine and heroin on Gower Street in October.

Properties relating to the 61-year-old were later searched and police found more drugs and cash.

He was charged on October 26, the day after he was caught in possession of the Class A drugs.

Following a hearing at Reading Crown Court, he was sentenced to three years in prison at Reading Crown Court on November 26.

He admitted to possession with intent to supply cocaine and heroin.

Police constable Zachary Rowe, of the Reading Stronghold team, said: “Tackling the illegal supply of drugs in the Thames Valley is a priority for the Force.

“Drug dealing in Reading and other areas of the Thames Valley will not be tolerated.

“The Stronghold campaign works with our partners to prevent serious and organised crime.

“We will continue to work hard to investigate and prosecute those committing crime in our communities.

“We would ask anyone who is aware of drug dealing in the community to please report it to the police on our non-emergency number 101, online or anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”