Working Class Action
Press Release: New Call for 10 year Drug Sentences
July 25th 2003
Local activist group Working Class Action (WCA) this week called for the implementation of the law in relation to the 10 year minimum sentence for possession of drugs over the value of 12,700 euros.
East Wall campagnier Joe Mooney explained:
"In the courts this week Judge Frank O Donnell sentenced a major drug dealer, James Bowes, to twelve years for possession of heroin worth E750,000. The Judge is to be commended on his decision to actually implement the law. In fact Judge O Donnell pointed out that while legislation provides for a minimum ten year sentence, he did not feel this was sufficient in the case before him."
The ten year minimum sentence is provided for possession of drugs above the value of E12,700 (£10,000). This law was enacted in 1999. Since then the number of times it has actually been applied can be counted on one hand. According to reports the judiciary and legal profession dislike being advised on minimum sentences, so many refuse to implement this law. It remains open to the State to appeal the leniency of sentences under ten years, but this option is not exercised.
However the contradiction in sentencing policy was revealed in another case this week when a woman, who had been caught red-handed with E500,000 worth of heroin, received just five years. While Bowes was guilty of mere possession, Evonna Cevat was found guilty of both possession and importation. Her co-accused had previously received a five year sentence also.
Mooney concluded:
"In reality a five year sentence will result in little more than three years in jail. The variation in sentencing policy in such cases negates the purpose of the minimum sentence as a deterrent, if the authorities are serious about discouraging drug dealing. The strict application of the 10 year law would make young people considering ‘getting rich quick’ consider the personal consequences they will face on conviction."
[ENDS]
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