A crack and heroin dealer who ran from police in an Ipswich park has been jailed for 30 months.

Sheldon William-Beaumont or Gordon Road, London, was found guilty of drug dealing offences and money laundering following a three-day trial at Ipswich Crown Court

Ipswich police officers approached William-Beaumont in Alexander Park, Ipswich, on February 16, with reason to search him

Althogh he fled, he was detained shortly afterwards, and found in possession of five £10 wraps of crack cocaine and £107 cash.

He was arrested in suspicion of possession with intent to supply and taken to Marltesham Police Investigation Centre for questioning. He was later the same day.

Sgt Murray Osman said: “This was another great result by the Youth Gang Prevention Unit as look to get the scourge of drugs off our streets.

“William-Beaumont was an operator who has links to drug gangs from London and someone who was determined to sell on the streets of Ipswich bringing misery to resident and vulnerable people - his not guilty plea at the outset of the trial demonstrates his lack of remorse for what he was doing.

“This result will hopefully reassure the local community that we will continue to listen to their concerns and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to tackle Class A drug dealing in the county under the force wide Operation Velocity banner.”

“The force wants to ensure the county remains a hostile environment for those involved in the supply of drugs.”

“The supply and dealing of illegal drugs will not be tolerated and residents can be reassured that any information passed to police will be acted on.

“If you suspect drug dealing is taking place or you are concerned that a young person or vulnerable adult may have been targeted by an organised crime group, please tell us. You don’t have to be certain, just concerned.”

People with suspicions should call police on 101 or they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.