An Albanian national who entered Britain illegally has been spared jail after pleading guilty to supplying cocaine and possessing a false identity document. Urim Morina, 27, received a suspended sentence due to his partner's depression and chronic pain, as well as directives aimed at alleviating prison overcrowding.
Morina was arrested in March when police raided his home as part of an investigation into a county lines drug gang. While no drugs were found, officers discovered nearly £700 in cash and a travel certificate bearing a different name. An 18-month period of cocaine supply was linked to a mobile phone found at the property.
Morina had initially entered the UK using a false travel document, sent by his father in the hope of finding a better life. His defense argued he had not committed offenses before this incident, had pursued education, and obtained professional qualifications, attempting to improve his situation.
Judge James Bromige handed Morina a two-year, four-month sentence, suspended for three years. This decision was influenced by new guidelines designed to prevent lower-level offenders from entering prison, intended to address overcrowding in Britain's jails. The judge also noted Morina's role in caring for his partner, attending to her medical needs and assisting with household tasks due to her health conditions.
Instead of imprisonment, Morina was ordered to complete 175 hours of unpaid work and 25 rehabilitation days. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson stated that sentencing decisions are made by independent judges, emphasizing that dangerous offenders will always face prison time. The ministry also highlighted efforts to increase prison capacity and implement stricter controls for offenders not sentenced to custody, including electronic tagging and potential imprisonment for rule violations.