Former soldier jailed for four years for dealing cocaine and cannabis in Leeds after he was caught in dangerous police chase

Ian Easton was arrested in possession of cocaine and cannabis after a dangerous car chase through the Wortley and Armley areas of the city.

Leeds Crown Court heard officers were on patrol in Upper Wortley in the early hours of November 9, 2019, when they saw a Seat Leon driving at double the 30mph speed limit.

The officers followed the vehicle along Greenthorpe Road and Greenthorpe Hill.

The driver appeared to be losing control as sparks began coming from the vehicle.

Ian Cook, prosecuting, said officers formed the view that the car had lost a tyre.

Easton continued to drive and narrowly avoided a collision with a van.

He abandoned the vehicle on Pudsey Road and ran off.

He tested positive for cocaine and the rucksack he was carrying was searched.

Mr Cook said the bag contained 13 separate deals of cocaine and seven of cannabis.

He was also in possession of £1,722 in cash.

More cannabis, cocaine and cash were recovered when his home was searched.

His mobile phone contained "boastful" messages relating to Easton supplying drugs.

Easton pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and possessing cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply

The 32-year-old has previous convictions for robbery and handling stolen goods.

Mrs Batty: "He found himself sucked into this world."

"He wasn't living a lavish lifestyle. It was simply a way of earning money to live on.

"He understands the seriousness of the situation."

Sentencing Easton, Judge Neil Clark said: "I bear in mind that when you left the army you found it difficult to find work and went off the rails.

"I do not think you were living the the life of a Miami Vice villain."

Easton was banned from driving for six years.

A confiscation order for £2,055 was made under the Proceeds of Crime Act.