Philenews

Attorney General's Appeal Overturns Drug Case Sentence – Defendant Jailed for 3.5 Years

Published January 28, 2026, 14:14
Attorney General's Appeal Overturns Drug Case Sentence – Defendant Jailed for 3.5 Years

The Court of Appeal overturned a previous decision in a drug case, increasing the defendant's prison sentence from 27 months suspended to 3.5 years of immediate imprisonment. The decision was made following an appeal by the Attorney General, who deemed the initial sentence inadequate given the seriousness of the offense – possession of one kilogram of cannabis with intent to supply to others – and the fact that the law provides for a sentence of up to life imprisonment. The Attorney General's appeal was based on the need for general and specific prevention and deterrence of similar crimes. Despite the passage of four years since the initial trial, the Court of Appeal decided to increase the sentence, taking into account the delay as a mitigating factor, but also considering any potential change in the defendant's personal circumstances. The case was handled by Sotiroula Michael, State Attorney, on behalf of the Attorney General. The Court of Appeal's decision highlights the importance of strict punishment for drug-related offenses in order to protect society and prevent further criminal activity.