A teenage drug dealer from Stone has avoided an immediate prison sentence after being among the first in the region to benefit from new sentencing powers that allow judges to suspend longer custodial terms.
Osman Miller-Kakay, 18, was involved in a 'Ghost' drugs line operation supplying crack cocaine and heroin across the West Midlands. He pleaded guilty to two charges of being concerned in the supply of a class A drug.
Police Surveillance
Prosecutor Salek Ahmed told the court that on January 23, a police officer in an unmarked car observed Miller-Kakay in Stone. Intelligence suggested the defendant was in possession of the drugs line. The officer called the line and saw Miller-Kakay take out a phone and put it to his ear before being stopped. A small black phone was found in his lap, later confirmed as the drugs line.
Following his arrest, police searched an address in Uttoxeter Road, Stone, where they recovered two sets of electronic scales and £635 in cash concealed inside a wall clock. His iPhone was also seized.
Mitigating Factors
Scott Ashdown, defending, explained that Miller-Kakay had a troubled upbringing. His father was stabbed and died when the defendant was eight years old. He later became involved with pro-criminal individuals and was himself stabbed. Additionally, he was diagnosed with a form of cancer affecting his spine, requiring surgery to remove a tumour, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Mr Ashdown said: "He turned to cannabis use as a coping mechanism. His dependence increased, and he accrued a debt to his dealer. He was pressured into dealing drugs to pay off that debt. He was involved under direction, not as the controlling mind."
New Sentencing Rule
Previously, courts could only suspend prison sentences of up to two years. However, new powers effective from March 22, 2026, allow judges to suspend sentences of up to three years. This change applies to defendants convicted on or after that date.
Judge Graeme Smith sentenced Miller-Kakay to 27 months in a young offenders' institution, suspended for two years, with a 25-day rehabilitation activity requirement and a £1,000 fine.
Judge Smith stated: "Drugs ruin lives through impacts on physical and mental health, addictions, and crime. You became addicted, accrued a drug debt, and were pressured. At a young age, you have dealt with more adversity than most. You were part of an operation supplying drugs, holding the Ghost line, but under direction. You were 18 with learning difficulties. The sentence should be suspended. You are a low risk of re-offending with no relevant previous convictions."
A first review of Miller-Kakay's progress is scheduled for July 30, and a Proceeds of Crime hearing will take place in the week commencing October 12.
