Chloë Ashley represented “J” who faced a sentence in respect of two allegations of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs, possession of cannabis, an allegation of possession of a baton and a separate allegation of possession of a lock knife. These were not J’s first drug offences, and he was subject to the mandatory minimum sentence in respect of the offensive weapon.
A phone was seized from J during the police’s investigation, which demonstrated his involvement in drug supply and that he had benefited financially from his involvement.
J pleaded guilty to the majority of these offences after the Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing.
An indication was given previously that he was to be sentenced as having played a “significant role” as a street dealer with a starting point of four and a half years on each drug offence. The prosecution relied on analysis from a drugs expert witness as part of their case.
Chloë persuaded the Court through detailed oral submissions that the prosecutions approach to sentencing guidelines was misconceived and that this was a case with features of “lesser role.” She also submitted that concurrent sentences could be imposed to enable the sentencing judge to bring the overall sentence down to twenty-four months. Having heard those submissions, the learned Judge agreed, and taking into account personal mitigation, imposed a suspended sentence.
Chloë was instructed by Clayton Solicitors.
