Article
08 March, 2024
The High-Profile & Private Crime Division, led by Partner Craig MacKenzie, secured acquittals for our client following a seven-week trial at Manchester Crown Court. The team instructed Ian McMeeking of Lincoln House Chambers in the case, which involved the supply of drugs across Greater Manchester.
Our client was accused of being a leading figure in the Organised Crime Group responsible for supplying vast amounts of drugs across the city. It was a case that many suggested that, on paper, it seemed hopeless to defend, and even though the majority involved pleaded guilty on the first day of trial, the team fought successfully to clear our client's name.
This represents the 8th acquittal in a row for the High-Profile & Private Crime Division, which has gone from strength to strength since being set up to specialise in offering a 'cutting edge, best in class service' to professionals, prominent individuals, and businesses subject to investigation or proceedings by the police and other regulatory and enforcement agencies.
As this case concludes, Europol reports on the EU drugs market & suggests a more robust response is needed.
The EU retail drug market is estimated to be worth more than EUR 30 billion annually, making it a significant source of income for organised crime. Europe occupies a central position in drug supply and trafficking, as evidenced by the large-scale production of cannabis and synthetic drugs within the EU and the vast volumes of cocaine arriving from Latin America.
Commenting on organised crime groups, Europol remarked that:
"Criminal networks operating in the EU drug market are highly adaptable, innovative and resilient to global crises, instability and significant political and economic changes. Recent examples of such shocks include the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's war on Ukraine and the Taliban's rise to power in Afghanistan. In response, criminal networks have adapted, changing trafficking routes and diversifying their methods."
Criminal networks leverage digital advances and technological opportunities to conceal illicit communication, improve drug distribution models and reduce risk. An example of this is the recent rise in the use of social media and instant messaging applications for the retail sale of drugs, making a wide range of substances more accessible.
Europol's Executive Director stated:
"Criminal networks infect the very core of our communities, weaving through the fabric of our democracy and economy. They erode trust, fuel violence, and create cycles of addiction and poverty. A vigilant, unified response is needed to safeguard our citizens and society from the omnipresent influence of this invisible enemy. Using Europol, EU Member States can pool resources, exchange criminal intelligence, and coordinate actions to tackle the illegal distribution of drugs."
"The market for illicit drugs, controlled by criminal networks, represents a serious security threat to the European Union. It endangers public health and safety while fostering extreme violence and corruption, undermining the very fabric of society, democracy and the rule of law."
Actions to counter drug crime
International law enforcement has had some recent success in disrupting major criminal drug markets, not least via the interception of Encrochat communications.
To strengthen the responses of law enforcement, Europol is urging all of its international partners to take further measures, including the following:
All of these measures increase the risk of detection and successful prosecution.
Investigations and prosecutions brought by the Police, NCA, HM Revenue and Customs and SOCA often involve many individuals and organisations and, as a result, are very lengthy and complex. It is vital to get legal advice immediately if you face charges of this nature, as you could face life imprisonment for the most serious offences.
Contact our specialist criminal defence team at any time on 01772 220 022. We have a team in place 24 hours a day and 365 days a year to be there when you need us.
For more information contact Craig MacKenzie in our Crime department via email or phone on 01772 220 022. Alternatively send any question through to Forbes Solicitors via our online Contact Form.
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