A MAN found dealing drugs on the streets of Newport has been given a suspended prison sentence.

Michael Hatch, 35, of Vardon Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, was sentenced to a two-year jail term, suspended for two years, at the Isle of Wight Crown Court on Friday.

He admitted possession with intent to supply a controlled drug of Class A.

The court heard how on March 7, 2019, Hatch ran away from police officers when they asked him to stop.

Officers gave chase, and caught up with him. Following a search of Hatch, six wraps of Class A drugs were found.

Daniel Sawyer, prosecuting, said Hatch told police he had just bought the drugs, but upon the search of a property Hatch admitted to be staying in, a further 18 wraps were found.

The total sum of the Class A drugs discovered were valued at £1,650.

Hatch admitted to possession for his own personal use, but declined to provide the pin to his phone so police could look for evidence of dealing, elongating the case.

Hatch was found to be acting on direction, with no suggestion of any pressure from anyone above him in the supply chain.

Judge Roger Hetherington said: "You were found to be on the street dealing drugs and had scales with you ­— a classically street dealing person at that stage.

"I'm impressed by references on your behalf and your own letter, which speaks of your autistic son and your relocation.

"In my judgement, you are progressing in the right direction."