A DRUG dealer hurtled down Cowley Road at 70mph before smashing his car into a building in a frantic bid to escape police.

Dexter Williams had already admitted a string of offences relating to the night of carnage ahead of his sentencing at Oxford Crown Court today.

The 29-year old, of Coriander Way, Greater Leys, had admitted dangerous driving, failing to stop after an accident, failing to provide a specimen for analysis, driving without a licence or insurance as well as a possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.

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The court heard how Williams was first spotted by police at St Clement’s at about midnight on March 2.

Officers became suspicious after spotting damage on the red Skoda car and seeing the driver – Williams – lying down with the seat fully reclined despite him being behind the wheel.

At first a passenger of the car got out to speak with police but then, prosecutors said, he sped off in the direction of Cowley Road.

Prosecutor Cathy Olliver said despite first chasing him police had to give up the pursuit because Williams was driving ‘too fast’ and a speed camera flashed him driving at 70mph on the 30mph road.

Eventually the car ploughed into the Islamic religious centre near the junction of Marsh Road and Williams and his passenger fled on foot, before officers later traced them and they were arrested.

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Both then refused to provide a specimen despite appearing ‘under the influence of something.’

Williams was also found to have more than £1,000 worth of drugs - heroin and cocaine, in the car.

In mitigation the court heard that Williams accepted his responsibility for what he had done and wanted to turn his life around.

Sentencing, Judge Nigel Daly ordered Williams serve a three-year jail term for the offences.

Speaking after the hearing investigating officer PC Tom Mason of the Stronghold team based at St Aldates police station, said: “Offences like this affect the most vulnerable members of our community, and Thames Valley Police will not tolerate drug dealing in our communities.

“The manner of driving displayed by Williams was a disgrace, endangering the lives of members of the public and the officers involved.

“Williams will now have a period of imprisonment where he can reflect upon his actions.”