Active Defence: Algorithmic Evidence & Class A Supply

The defendant faces serious charges relating to the operation of a dedicated drug line:

• 2 Counts: Being Concerned in Supplying a Controlled Drug of Class A (Heroin and Crack Cocaine).
• 1 Count: Acquiring/Using/Possessing Criminal Property (Cash).

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The charges rely on the inference that the defendant was "running" the line due to the volume of communications associated with the phone number.

Information gathered by Greater Manchester Police identified a drug line selling Class A drugs. The investigation relied heavily on telecommunication data and algorithmic analysis.

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The evidence revealed that the phone line received 14,000 calls and 4,500 SMS messages. Furthermore, the line itself sent over 7,000 calls and 29,000 SMS messages. Officers used algorithms to assess the volume of trade, estimating that 2,642kg of drugs were traded via this line. The prosecution initially charged the defendant with running the entire operation.

Current Strategy: Challenging the Algorithmic Evidence

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The prosecution's case relied heavily on an algorithmic assessment of the telecommunications data to attribute a massive volume of trade (2,642kg) and a leadership role to the defendant.

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Our defence strategy focused on "Role Reduction." We advised the defendant to enter a Guilty plea on a specific Basis of Plea that directly contradicted the algorithm's implication of executive control. We successfully argued that the defendant was acting solely upon the instruction of those above him, functioning at a "street supply" level rather than managing the network. This distinction is critical for sentencing, as it moves the culpability down from a "Leading" role.

Status: Awaiting Sentence

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Faced with the digital evidence, the defendant entered a guilty plea on the accepted basis.

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The defendant also accepted that approximately £20,000 of the seized cash was proceeds of crime. The case is currently listed for sentencing at Manchester Crown Square.