A DRUG dealer from Salisbury was jailed for three-and-a-half years on his 45th birthday on Friday.

Stephen Mark Patrick, pictured, pleaded guilty to possession of a class A drug with intent to supply after being found with 92 grams of cocaine at his home in Ivy Street.

Officers were on patrol in Salisbury on February 7 when they saw a man leaving Patrick’s home after a suspected drug deal.

They searched the man, who had a gram of cocaine, and they then searched Patrick’s home where they found about 17 bags of cocaine worth £4,255. Officers also found empty plastic bags for dealing, a dealer’s list and £2,245 in cash.

Salisbury Crown Court heard Patrick, who was jailed in 2008 for a similar offence, started dealing to clear a drug debt after using seven grams a day himself.

Since being charged, Patrick has undergone counselling and treatment for his addiction through Turning Point.

Judge Andrew Barnett said: “Your life has been ruined by abuse of drugs as you know well. I can’t overlook your list of previous convictions. Last time you were before this court it was for the very same offence, possession with intent to supply cocaine.

“You were sent to prison then and you will be sent to prison again today.”