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Criminal Defence Solicitor Andrew Millar Successfully Defends Client Against Serious Crime Prevention Order

In a significant victory for criminal defence, RP Crawford Criminal Defence Solicitor Andrew Millar successfully acted on behalf of a client, Yingle Jiang, in her battle against a Serious Crime Prevention Order following her conviction for a series of drug offences.

Jiang, a single mother of three from East Belfast, was initially sentenced last June to three years and nine months in prison for her involvement in a large-scale drug operation. The charges against her included being part of a network that facilitated the supply of cannabis and the laundering of criminal property, with cannabis seizures valued at an estimated £3.3 million. Despite her role in the drug trade, RP Crawford’s expert legal defence secured a critical outcome in the ongoing proceedings.

The case came before Belfast Crown Court for a ruling on a Crown application that sought to impose a Serious Crime Prevention Order on Jiang. This order would have imposed stringent restrictions on her daily life, including limitations on her residency, telephone use, cash handling, and dealings with rental properties.

What Was at Stake?

The proposed order would have subjected Jiang to permanent residence notifications, requirements to carry a copy of the order at all times, and restrictions on cash transactions and rental agreements. These measures were intended to reduce the risk of further criminal involvement and ensure public safety. The PSNI had described Jiang as a significant member of an organised crime group, stating that she had played an organisational role in the operation, arranging drug shipments and coordinating cash transfers.

However, Andrew Millar presented a robust defence, focusing on Jiang’s personal circumstances, including the profound impact her criminal activities had on her family and her mental health. Andrew Millar argued that her past offences, imprisonment, and the strain it placed on her children, alongside her mental health struggles, significantly reduced the likelihood of reoffending.

Judge’s Ruling: A Clear Win for the Defence

After considering both the severity of Jiang’s past crimes and the mitigating factors presented by Andrew Millar, Judge Patricia Smyth ruled against the imposition of the Serious Crime Prevention Order. She acknowledged Jiang’s role in the drug enterprise but ultimately concluded that there was insufficient evidence to suggest a real risk of further criminal activity.

Judge Smyth pointed to the lengthy licence Jiang had already received, which ensures close monitoring of her post-sentence behaviour, as a sufficient safeguard to prevent future offending. The judge also took into account Jiang’s remorse, the toll on her mental health, and the consequences of her actions on her children.

A Positive Outcome for Jiang

This decision represents a significant achievement for Andrew Millar and the team at RP Crawford Limited Solicitors. It highlights not only the expertise and strategic approach employed in defending clients against harsh legal measures but also the consideration of personal circumstances in criminal cases. By successfully challenging the imposition of the Serious Crime Prevention Order, Andrew Millar ensured that Jiang would not face further legal restrictions beyond her current sentence.

As a leading criminal defence solicitor in Northern Ireland, Andrew Millar’s successful advocacy underscores the importance of expert legal advice and representation, especially in complex criminal matters. If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges or legal proceedings, contact us for professional, confidential support and expert advice on 028 9038 1024 or email enquiries@rpcrawfordsolicitors.com.

News feature: https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/courts/bid-to-impose-crime-order-on-single-mum-linked-to-drugs-enterprise-rejected/a993211757.html

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