A RAMPAGING drug dealer who caused damage was found cowering in nettles after being chased by a police dog.

Ben Atkinson was stopped by police after smashing windows, furniture and children’s toys at a house in Churchill Way in Horsham.

He assaulted a woman inside, before stealing a car and driving to Itchingfield, where it was dumped.

At Crawley Magistrates' Court he admitted assault, criminal damage, and taking a car without the owner’s permission while banned from driving, and was jailed for six months.

The 30-year-old, of no fixed address, was also jailed for four years for admitting possession of cocaine and cannabis with the intent to supply the drugs at a hearing at Lewes Crown Court.

Police Constable Dale Markhew said: “Atkinson returned to the address in Horsham, and when he saw officers he ran towards woods behind the house.

“German Shepherd PD Vinnie was called in, and within minutes found a black rucksack containing drugs.

“Then after tracking through dense undergrowth, Atkinson emerged from a nettle bush.

"He was clearly intent on evading capture, running away from police, and only gave himself up when faced with a police dog."

The PC thanked the public for their help.