LONDON, Jan 3: A British javelin thrower and coach has been banned for four years for multiple doping violations.

UK Anti-Doping says Ian Burns was sanctioned based on information from a police investigation.

Durham police raided Burns’ home in 2011 in connection with non-doping related offenses and found large amounts of banned substances.

The doping agency says a disciplinary panel found the 34-year-old Burns guilty of possession and use of banned substances, including stanozolol, testosterone and human growth hormone.

Burns is banned from all competition until May 19, 2016.

UKAD chief executive Andy Parkinson says “this case could not have come about” without the help of police.

Burns was a member of the Gateshead athletics club but never competed for Britain.

His best throw is 69.57 metres (228 feet, 3 inches).—AP