THE CHARACTERISTICS AND SENTENCING OF ILLEGAL DRUG IMPORTERS

This article reports on a study of 573 persons sentenced for illegal d rug importation through Heathrow and Gatwick Airports between 1990 and 1992. An analysis of the characteristics of the group is provided. Pa tterns of sentencing are examined in relation to the class and estimat ed value of the drug and the nationality and gender of the offender. T he research was undertaken in conjunction with an experimental project in which staff of the Middlesex Area Probation Service provided socia l enquiry reports in court proceedings concerning foreign national dru g importers, a group which previously had not benefited from this prov ision.