DETECTIVES said a convicted drug dealer’s “arrogance” resulted in precious time and public money being wasted.

Kenneth Cox, 45, was jailed for six years and five months at Swindon Crown Court this week after a jury found him guilty of supplying crack cocaine.

The Penhill man, who in 2013 was given a suspended sentence after police found a drugs press in his garage, sold the class A drug to an undercover officer in Broadgreen last year.

You can read our full report from court here.

Swindon Advertiser:

Kenneth Cox's custody shot Picture: WILTSHIRE POLICE

Reacting to the jail sentence, Det Sgt Phil Hines of Wiltshire Police’s Serious Organised Crime Unit said:  "We welcome this result as it reflects this man's significant senior role in this operation as well as the seriousness of dealing Class A drugs.

"Cox denied his involvement all through this case and subsequent trial.  His arrogance and obstructiveness - which was recognised by the judge - resulted in precious time and public money being spent on a trial which could have been avoided if Cox had admitted to his crimes earlier.

"The message here is if you deal in illicit drugs we will target you and your associates who supply illegal drugs which can have a negative impact on the lives of many in our communities, and not just those who the drugs are supplied to.

“I’d continue to urge members of the public to help us build on our intelligence by reporting their concerns or any suspicious incidents in their neighbourhood, like drug dealing, so the appropriate action can be taken.”

READ MORE: Drug dealer jailed for 6 years and 5 months for selling to cop