Akil Atkins, 28, has been jailed after police witnessed a drug deal outside a hotel near Gatwick Airport.
Atkins drove off from officers in a hire car, and later made a false claim that he was the victim of a carjacking.
Officers on foot patrol in Povey Cross Road saw a suspected drug deal taking place outside a hotel and stopped a man who was suspected of purchasing class A drugs.
A second man ignored officers and drove away in a BMW at high speed.
The car was later found abandoned in Horley, where officers found methyl amphetamine (commonly known as crystal meth) and cannabis inside.
Atkins, in an attempt to cover his tracks by calling call to the Metropolitan Police, and claiming he had been “robbed” of his vehicle at knifepoint.
But his DNA was later found on a package of drugs in the car.
The dealer also left his passport, wallet, and documents confirming he had hired the car inside the vehicle.
Atkins, of Tipton Drive, Croydon, appeared before Lewes Crown Court on June 2, where he admitted to possession of a class A drug with intent to supply, possession of a class B drug with intent to supply, being concerned in the supply of a class A drug, being concerned in the supply of a class B drug, and perverting the course of justice.
The court was informed that these offences took place on January 7, 2021, during the time when national restrictions were in place for coronavirus.
