AN INTERNATIONAL boxing coach turned to a life of drug dealing in a bid to support his son and partner.

Chad Ouzman, who taught boxing in Isleworth, has been jailed for more than three years after he was caught trying to supply cocaine to users around south Essex.

The 46-year-old of Radford Way, Billericay was pulled over by police as part of a routine check, but officers soon found he had 18 wraps of cocaine inside of his car.

Ouzman, who is the father of a 16-year-old boy, also had a total of £1,600 in his car, which police deduced was proceeds from dealing other drugs of Class A.

Two telephones were also found, with the Nokia and Samsung models having messages and inbound calls related to drug dealing.

Ouzman was later charged with and admitted possession with intent to supply cocaine and trying to disguise criminal property in relation to the cash.

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He was jailed at Basildon Crown Court yesterday.

Mitigating, Kevin Toomey said: “This is a classic street dealing case. It’s all too sad to see people making terrible and stupid decisions in getting involved in the selling of drugs on the streets.

“He was a boxing coach, teaching amateur boxers and was qualified to coach up to international level.

“He had been working for a gym in Isleworth teaching youngsters and adults.

“Unfortunately it was not lucrative enough to fund a life with his family.

“He has caused shame to his 16-year-old son and his partner. It’s his fault and his fault alone.”

The court heard that Ouzman had previously been before the court in 2008 for similar offences, but had remained out of trouble until he was caught in South Ockendon on July 30.

Recorder Leslie Cuthbert jailed Ouzman for three years and four months.