A DRUG dealer caught with crack cocaine, heroin and a loaded gun during a police raid has been sent to prison for five years.

Mervyn Mark, 22, of Canonbury Grove, Canonbury, was sentenced at Blackfriars Crown Court on Friday March 25 after being convicted of possession of a firearm with live ammunition and possession of the Class A substances.

Detectives and neighbourhood officers from Islington raided his home in November last year and arrested him after discovering the drugs and weapon stash.

Investigating officer Sergeant Derek Wright said: “A dangerous criminal and a weapon capable of taking a life has been taken off the streets. Islington Proactive Crime Squad is committed to tackling serious crime in the borough and this will have a considerable impact on the local community. This conviction sends out a very clear message to those who possess guns and supply illegal drugs that they will be dealt with vigorously.”

Mark was jailed for five years for having a firearm, 12 months for possession of live ammunition and three months for possessing crack and heroin. The sentences will run concurrently.