A drug dealer who assaulted a police officer in St Ives before running off has been jailed for four-and-a-half years.

Robert Booth, of no fixed abode, was sentenced at Peterborough Crown Court on January 8 after admitting a string of drugs offences.

The court heard how the 21-year-old was spotted carrying out a suspected drug deal near St Ivo school on October 29.

When a police officer tried to stop him, Booth assaulted him and ran away.

His description was circulated and a PCSO suggested Booth as the suspect. He was traced to a house in Ramsey Road where he was arrested for the assault and escaping from custody. While there, they found 51 bags of cocaine, 28g of cannabis and 13g of ketamine.

Booth pleaded guilty to two counts of possessions a class A drug with intent to supply, one of possessing a class B drug with intent to supply, possession of a class C drug, assault with intent to resist arrest and escaping from lawful custody.

PCSO Hannah Shepherd said: “This was great work by officers who recognised the description of Booth which led to his arrest and the discovery of the drugs.

“We will not tolerate the use and supply of drugs, especially around schools where young children might be exposed to such criminality.

“This sentence should send a strong message that offenders face a long spell behind bars.”

Editor’s note: The Hunts Post can clarify that the total number of bags of cocaine found was 51 and not the figure published previously. We apologise for the error and any distress caused.