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Gang sentenced for importing licensed drugs illegally (16 June 2016)

Date: 16/06/2016
Duncan Lewis, Crime Solicitors, Gang sentenced for importing licensed drugs illegally

A gang which imported erectile dysfunction drugs and tranquillisers illegally has been sentenced after prosecution by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

At an earlier hearing, the gang pleaded guilty to conspiracy to import medicinal products without a licence – and conspiracy to commit Trade Mark Act offences.

Parcels of the drugs were imported from India, China and Hong Kong by James Michie and were handled by his fellow gang members Anthony Cunningham and Mark Parkinson, who worked as self-employed delivery drivers contracted to Royal Mail.

Michie is a former professional snooker player who reached the semi-final of the British Open in 1999 and knew Parkinson through their mutual love of the sport. The pair later recruited Cunningham to assist in the operation.

An investigation by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) found that, between 2008 and 2010, James Michie imported more than 1.2 million unlicensed erectile dysfunction tablets and more than 141,000 other illegal medicines – including diazepam worth over £3.5 million. He later accepted payment for their sale.

At a sentencing hearing at Leeds Crown Court, Michie, 44, from Whitley Bridge, was handed a 40-month jail term, after pleading guilty to charges of conspiracy to import medicinal products without a licence, handling stolen goods, money laundering and conspiracy to commit Trade Mark Act offences.

Mark Parkinson, 47, from Pontefract was sentenced to 34 months’ imprisonment – and Anthony Cunningham, 49, also from Pontefract, was given a 12-month Community Service Order and was ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work.

After sentencing, MHRA Head of Enforcement, Alastair Jeffrey, said:

“The scale and organisation of this criminal enterprise demonstrates the determination of the individuals involved to profit from the illegal sales of medicines.

“Criminals who illegally supply medicines are not concerned with the health of their customers – they only want their money.

“To protect your health, visit your GP, get a correct diagnosis – and buy medicines from a legitimate high street or registered pharmacy which can trade online.”

The MHRA is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe. MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health.

Duncan Lewis Crime Lawyers

Duncan Lewis crime lawyers can advise at any stage of a charge involving drugs offences, including importing illegal medicines or Class A or Class B drugs, importing licensed medicines illegally, as well as charges relating to possession or distribution of illegal or banned drugs.

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and our criminal defence lawyers are usually able to reach a police station for interview under caution within an hour.

For expert legal advice on drugs offences, call Duncan Lewis crime solicitorscrime lawyers on 0333 772 0409.

For 24/7 help at a police station, call the Duncan Lewis Solicitors 24-Hour Emergency Helpline on 0333 772 0607.


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