Supplying ketamine to vulnerable adults is viewed particularly harshly under UK law, as it combines drug offences with the exploitation of individuals in a vulnerable position. The law takes into account the specific risks and harm caused when drugs like ketamine are supplied to people who may already be at a disadvantage due to their physical, mental, or social circumstances.

Key legal consequences of supplying ketamine to vulnerable adults:

1. Exploitation of vulnerability as an aggravating factor:
   • UK courts view the supply of drugs to vulnerable individuals, such as those with mental health issues, disabilities, or substance use disorders, as an aggravating factor in sentencing.
   • The Sentencing Council guidelines for drug offences recommend harsher penalties in such cases because of the increased harm caused to individuals who may not be fully aware of the risks or may be more easily manipulated.
2. Sentencing under Class B drug offences (Ketamine):
   • As ketamine is a Class B drug, the maximum penalty for supplying it remains up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.
   • However, where vulnerable adults are involved, the likelihood of receiving a longer sentence is higher due to the additional exploitation.
   • Targeting vulnerable adults is seen as particularly serious, often leading to the upper range of sentencing guidelines being applied.
3. Other offences:
   • In addition to drug-related offences, supplying ketamine to vulnerable adults could also result in charges related to abuse, coercion, or even exploitation if it is proven that the supplier took advantage of the adult’s condition.
   • If the vulnerable individual suffers harm as a result of the drug supply (e.g., an overdose or serious injury), the supplier may also face additional criminal charges, including gross negligence manslaughter in extreme cases.
4. Proceeds of Crime Act (2002):
   • Authorities may confiscate any assets obtained through illegal drug activities. This includes anything of value purchased with proceeds from supplying drugs.
5. Care and safeguarding responsibilities:
   • Supplying drugs to a vulnerable person who is under someone’s care could lead to further charges related to the breach of duty of care, particularly if the supplier is in a position of trust or influence over the individual.

Why is this treated so seriously?

Supplying ketamine to vulnerable adults is considered especially harmful because such individuals are less likely to fully understand the consequences of using dangerous drugs, making them more susceptible to addiction, physical harm, or death. This is why courts treat it more severely, as the intent behind such supply is not just the sale of an illegal substance but also the exploitation of someone who is at greater risk of suffering.

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