Sam Coleman was sentenced to 21 years in prison for dealing a lot of cocaine and having illegal guns. He tried to appeal, but the court said the sentence was fair given the seriousness of his crimes.
Key Facts
- •Sam Coleman (aged 33) pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to drug trafficking and firearms offences.
- •Offences included conspiracy to supply cocaine, conspiracy to transfer criminal property, conspiracy to possess prohibited weapons, conspiracy to possess ammunition, possession of cocaine with intent to supply, and possession of criminal property.
- •Crimes occurred between March and June 2020 and February 2021.
- •Coleman used the EncroChat handle "LousyBrandy" to communicate with other criminals.
- •The investigation revealed involvement in supplying 26 kilograms of cocaine and transferring nearly £1 million in criminal property.
- •The conspiracies involved various firearms, including Glock and Colt pistols, shotguns, a Skorpion machine gun, a TEC-9, and an AK-47.
- •Police seized cash, drugs, and a knife during a search of Coleman's home and vehicle.
- •Coleman had one previous conviction for possession of a Class B drug with intent.
Legal Principles
Sentencing for drug trafficking and firearms offences should reflect the seriousness and scale of the crime, including the role played by the offender.
Case law and Sentencing Guidelines
The use of encrypted communication platforms like EncroChat is a significant aggravating factor in sentencing.
Case law
Totality of sentencing must be considered when imposing multiple concurrent and consecutive sentences.
Case law
Outcomes
The Court of Appeal refused the application for an extension of time and leave to appeal against sentence.
The sentences imposed (21 years imprisonment) were not manifestly excessive, considering the seriousness of the offences, Coleman's leading role, and the aggravating factors.