A Cirencester man arrested on his 19th birthday for drug dealing and possessing £24,000 worth of designer clothes and shoes bought with his ill-gotten gains has been sent to a young offenders’ institution for three years and four months.

Prosecutor Alex Daymond told Gloucester Crown Court yesterday (April 20) that a police warrant was executed at Cordell Patterson’s home in Burge Court following reports the occupant was dealing Class A drugs.

“They forced entry and, while this was happening, the occupant threw a bag containing white powder out the window, which was retrieved by an officer.

“The property was searched and police found cannabis wraps and a bag containing 170grams of the class B drug and a small bag of cannabis weighing 24 grams, valued at £1,940 in street deals.

“The 18.4 grams bag of cocaine thrown out the window was estimated to be worth £800.

“Designer clothing, valued at £10,000 and designer trainers, valued at £14,000 were also seized.

Seized shoes

Seized shoes

"Some £4,150 in cash was discovered.

“Patterson’s phone was found to have evidence of drug dealing on it. Some messages related to a runner he employed. That runner has pleaded guilty to drug offences."

Patterson was arrested on March 1.

Sarah Jenkins defending, said: “Patterson had somebody running for him, but was doing most of the dealing himself.

“Patterson entered the world of dealing because he was a heavy user of cannabis. After a while he accrued a drug debt.

“By the time of Patterson’s arrest this debt had been paid, but he carried on dealing.

“Patterson has had time to reflect and now realises this way of life was not worth it.

“His pre-sentence report suggests he is of very good character and when released will be able to make a fresh start. He aims to undertake a carpentry course so he can obtain employment.”

Patterson, now of Watermoor, pleaded guilty to the possession of cocaine and cannabis with the intent to supply, possessing cash as the proceeds of crime and the possession of designer goods following the conversion of the proceeds of crime into property.

Judge Michael Cullum said: “You took to your drug dealing business with a flourish and even employed somebody to act as your day to day salesman.

“I accept this is your first time in custody and have taken into account your background, as you have not had the easiest start in life.

“I’ve seen the remorse you have demonstrated.”

The judge sentenced Patterson 40 months detention in a young offenders’ institution.