Robber caught hiding in Leeds pub toilet after year on the run

Officers found Ashley Edeson in possession of more than £1,700 worth of heroin and cocaine when he was arrested in the toilets at the Picture House pub in Leeds City Centre.

Leeds Crown Court heard Edeson, 24, was arrested in January this year and had been at large since February 7 2013 for an offence of robbery.

Christopher Jackson, prosecuting, said Edeson initially told officers he had simply found the drugs but later refused to comment further during interview. Edeson, of Second Avenue, Armley, pleaded guilty to two offences of possession with intent to supply a class A drug.

Mr Jackson said it was the Crown’s view that Edeson was a street dealer.

The court heard Edeson has previous convictions for robbery, including an attack on a taxi driver who was struck of over the head.

Matthew Harding, mitigating, said it was Edeson’s first convictions for a drug offence and it would be the first time he would be spending a lengthy period in custody.

Mr Harding said Edeson, a father of three, had been studying for a qualification in catering while on the run.

He added: “He is using his time constructively to acquire some skills for his ultimate release.”

Recorder Gurdial Singh jailed Edeson for 16 months.

He said: “Anyone who is involved in the dealing of class A drugs has to go to prison for a considerable period of time.”

Recorder Singh made a confiscation order of £40 under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Edeson was found in possession of the amount at the time of arrest. He must pay the sum within 28 days.