A Stoke couple dodged jail for drug dealing. Critics call for a review of lenient sentencing guidelines.
The judge gave them a suspended sentence, citing their “desperation” and their child. The couple lived on Best Street. Redfern had no job, and Ekin earned very little.
Their lawyer said they felt they had no choice and couldn’t find another way. New sentencing rules came out last April, listing disadvantages judges should consider. These factors can lighten sentences.
Dr. Kieran Mullan wants harsher punishments, believing background shouldn’t excuse crime. He asked the Attorney General to review the case and wants Ekin and Redfern’s sentences re-examined. The Attorney General has 28 days to decide whether to send it to the Court of Appeal.
Mullan spoke to GB News about the crime, reminding listeners of the dangerous impact of Class A drugs like cocaine and ecstasy. Mullan also notes the expense for taxpayers, pointing out that many people struggle with their incomes but most don’t choose crime.
Excusing their choices insults others who make better decisions; we cannot excuse crime so easily. New rules state judges must consider disadvantages, such as poverty, poor education, discrimination, and housing issues.
Judges must also note negative experiences with authority, family crime exposure, peer pressure, and drug abuse. These rules guide all judges and affect how they assess responsibility. Alex Chalk called the rules “patronising”.
Philip Davies also criticized these rules, noting that tough backgrounds don’t lessen guilt and deprivation doesn’t make crime excusable.
Police searched their home on March 3, 2023, finding drugs, cash, and phones. They found £310 and drug bags, along with 55 ecstasy pills, ketamine, cannabis, and scales.
Ekin’s phone had drug sale messages relating to ecstasy and ketamine, while Redfern’s phone showed cocaine sales. Ekin admitted to possessing ecstasy to supply, possessing ketamine and cannabis, and possessing an offensive weapon.
Redfern admitted possessing ecstasy to supply, supplying cocaine, and possessing ketamine and cannabis for supply. The judge suspended the sentence because they were low risk, fit for rehab, and care for a child.
Ekin must complete 25 days of rehab and 120 hours of unpaid work; Redfern must complete 30 days of rehab and received a £500 fine.