Sisters Avoid jail Time in Cocaine and heroin Operation, Citing Coercion
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A judge has suspended the sentences of two sisters involved in a significant drug operation, acknowledging they were manipulated by a convicted criminal. Paris Connolly, 32, and Destiny Connolly, 26, narrowly avoided prison time after pleading guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine and heroin. The case, heard at Minshull Street crown Court, highlights the complexities of prosecuting individuals involved in criminal enterprises under duress.
The ‘Kyzer’ Line and Initial Investigation
For several months, Destiny Connolly operated a drug line known as ‘Kyzer,’ sending over 2,000 messages advertising crack cocaine and heroin for sale. The investigation began after an accidental delivery – three packages of cannabis, totaling one kilogram and valued between £6,000 and £9,000 per kilo (or £10,000 in street deals) – were mistakenly delivered to a neighbor of Paris Connolly. One package was given to Destiny, while the others were turned over to police. The cannabis strain was identified as ‘Cali’ weed.
Arrests and Evidence of a Larger Operation
Following the misdelivered packages, officers raided the homes of both sisters.At Paris Connolly’s residence in Oldham, police discovered a wrap of cannabis hidden inside a Louis Vuitton handbag, along with a Nokia phone, two iPhones, a knife, and scales containing traces of cocaine. Simultaneously, Destiny Connolly and her then-partner, Jack Harrison, attempted to retrieve the remaining two packages, becoming “aggressive” when informed they had been handed to the police, demanding either the parcels or £6,500 for each.
Jack Harrison, 28, was later arrested on August 24 last year for posession with intent to supply Class A drugs, driving offenses, and strangulation of a police officer.He was sentenced to six years and two months in prison earlier this year. Investigators also uncovered evidence linking Destiny Connolly to the ‘Kyzer’ line, identifying 2,511 “flare” messages advertising drugs, including slang terms like “four white, one brown” for cocaine and heroin.
Coercion and Domestic Abuse as Mitigating Factors
The court heard that the sisters were initially coerced into the criminal enterprise by Harrison. Messages revealed Destiny asking Paris if she wanted to “work,” with Harrison promising to contact her and apologizing for the situation. Evidence of arguments between the sisters also surfaced, with one message stating, “You’re sniffing more than you actually sell.”
Defending the sisters, Ellen Shaw presented a basis of plea document outlining the coercion they experienced. She also noted Paris Connolly had a prior conviction for cultivating a cannabis farm in 2017.Recorder michael Hayton KC acknowledged the heartbreaking nature of the testimonies and letters submitted on behalf of the sisters,stating,”It is indeed heartbreaking to read these documents.” He recognized the potential for lengthy prison sentences – “five to six years” – but ultimately decided against incarceration.
Judge’s Reasoning for Suspended Sentences
Recorder Hayton KC explained his decision, emphasizing the sisters’ age, character, and the manipulative influence of Jack Harrison.He stated, “Jack Harrison, it is clear to me, is the prime mover. He coerced you to become involved.” The judge also highlighted the potential negative impact of imprisonment on the sisters’ children and the risk of exposing them to a more dangerous criminal environment. He further noted evidence suggesting Harrison engaged in domestic violence as part of his control over the sisters,stating,”Bad men beat you up,they hurt you and get you involved in offences.”
Both Destiny Connolly, of Cardale Walk, Harpurhey, and Paris connolly, of Manchester road, Oldham, received a two-year suspended sentence. They were also each ordered to complete 100 hours of unpaid work and 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days. The judge concluded, “You were playing your part and an important part in a substantial drug operation… you are not going to go to prison today.” Both women were visibly emotional as the sentence was delivered.
