A TEENAGER caught with cannabis deals just a month after coming out of prison for selling drugs is back behind bars.

Scott Stephenson, of Cotherstone Road, Stockton, was jailed in November 2012 for possessing cocaine with intent to supply.

He was released in November last year, but was found with drugs again on December 1, Teesside Crown Court heard yesterday.

When police stopped a car in Yarm Road, Stockton, passenger Stephenson ran off and vaulted a wall - but fell over and was caught.

The 19-year-old told officers he had "some skunk" in his pocket, and a search unearthed £200 worth, said Sue Jacobs, prosecuting.

Peter Wishlade, mitigating, said Stephenson had been candid when he was arrested and admitted he was dealing to make money.

He said the teenager had no cash after his release, and wanted to buy his mother and grandmother "something significant" for Christmas.

"Of course he wasn't able to do so, because on December 1 all of his plans went awol," said Mr Wishlade. "He did it to raise money.

"Effectively, he will have had one month of freedom until the end of the sentence that is imposed today."

Stephenson admitted a charge of possessing Class B drugs with intent to supply and was jailed for eight months.

Judge Howard Crowson told him: "I see a young man who is prepared to be honest, and that gives me some hope for the future.

"But there is a real danger you are going to be someone who spends a great deal of time in custody unless you change your ways."