A driver was jailed for nine months after police found him in a drug-induced trance, carrying a bag of amphetamine powder and a syringe.

Joseph McGrath, 34, of Hill Top Road, Oxford, was found guilty at Oxford Crown Court of possession of drugs with intent to supply after being found with 16.3 grammes of amphetamine. Another 1.09 grammes was found in his home. He admitted possession of all the drugs.

But on hearing the jury's verdict, McGrath said: 'That's outrageous, you can't believe that'.

Earlier, Pc Paul Davies told the court he opened the driver's door and crouched down to talk to McGrath.

He said: "He was most peculiar. He seemed to be in a trance."

Pc Davies said McGrath lashed out with his fists, tearing his shirt.

Gerard Quirke, prosecuting, said McGrath had already received a 90-day jail sentence for assaulting Pc Davies, which was reduced to two months on appeal.

During the trial, Mr Quirke said the amphetamines had been of 48 per cent purity. He said the usual purity of amphetamine bought on the street was between one and four per cent.

Mr Quirke said if the powder was for street sale it would be worth around £2,600.

Nicholas Syfret, defending, said McGrath had gone through difficult times in his personal life which had caused him to turn to drugs.

The recorder, John Ross, told him: "Supply of such dangerous drugs must expect immediate custodial sentences."

Story date: Monday 01 February

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