Drugs charges dropped for vulnerable young person following successful modern slavery defence

We recently acted for a young client, aged 18 at the time of arrest, who was charged with multiple serious drug offences, (and driving offences) including:

• Possession with intent to Supply Class A
• Possession with intent to Supply Class A
• Concerned in the Supply of Class A
• Concerned in the Supply Class A
• Concerned in the Supply of Class B

From the outset we identified significant safeguarding concerns and vulnerabilities. We successfully applied for bail, allowing us to more easily liaise with our client. Through careful case preparation, we secured a National Referral Mechanism (NRM) referral, which resulted in a positive conclusive grounds decision recognising our client as a victim of exploitation.

In support of our client’s defence, we obtained several expert reports:

• Modern Slavery report – Concluded that our client’s account was consistent with that of a victim of modern slavery
• Child psychologist report – Confirmed vulnerabilities relating to PTSD and depression
• Psychiatrist report - Provided further evidence of our client’s complex needs.
• Intermediary report – Determined that our client would require high levels of support throughout any court proceedings.

These reports not only demonstrated the extent of our clients’ vulnerabilities but their likely impact on his involvement in the alleged offences.

Ultimately, after submission of all expert evidence and the NRM findings, the CPS concluded there was insufficient evidence to proceed. As a result, all charges were dropped against our client. This outcome was particularly significant given that a conviction could have resulted in a custodial sentence of up to 7 years. He was immensely relieved to be able to move forward with his life.

Phoebe Coleman was the solicitor of conduct of this case. She was assisted by her paralegal, Lucie Hall. Violet Smart of Doughty Street Chambers was instructed Counsel and provided insight and assistance throughout.