R v Joshua Robert Curley Mullings
[2023] EWCA Crim 1270
R v Michael James Patrick Derrane
24 April 2024
[2024] EWCA Crim 473
Court of Appeal
A man was caught running a large drug and illegal gun operation. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 19 years and 2 months in prison. He appealed his sentence but the court said the sentence was fair given the seriousness of his crimes.
Key Facts
- •Michael James Patrick Derrane pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to firearms and drug trafficking.
- •Offences came to light through EncroChat encrypted messaging service interceptions.
- •Charges included conspiracy to transfer prohibited weapons, conspiracy to supply heroin, cocaine, and cannabis, and possession of prohibited weapons and ammunition.
- •Derrane acted as a key facilitator in a large-scale, sophisticated criminal enterprise involving firearms and drugs.
- •He had previous convictions, including blackmail and wounding with intent.
- •Derrane claimed he was acting under duress due to threats against his partner.
Legal Principles
Sentencing guidelines for firearms and drug trafficking offences.
Sentencing Guidelines
Totality principle in sentencing.
R v Kerrigan [2014] EWCA Crim 2348
Credit for guilty pleas in sentencing.
Sentencing Guidelines
Outcomes
Appeal against sentence refused.
The court found the 19-year 2-month sentence to be appropriate given the scale and seriousness of the offences, the defendant's role, and his previous convictions. The judge appropriately considered totality, mitigation, and credit for pleas.