Home   Deal   News   Article

Fight to bring in Robert's Law in memory of Deal teenager continues with parliamentary debate

The fight to bring in Robert’s Law in memory of a Deal teenager who died after taking fentanyl continues with a parliamentary debate today.

MP Charlie Elphicke, who has been working with Robert Fraser’s mum Michelle Parry, secured a debate in Westminster Hall.

It is titled ‘Sentences for supplying Fentanyl – Fighting for Robert’s Law’.

Robert Fraser from Deal died in November 2016, aged 18.
Robert Fraser from Deal died in November 2016, aged 18.

Together they are working to raise awareness of the deadly drug - which is 50 times stronger than heroin - and bring in tougher sentences for people caught supplying the drug.

So far, the Crown Prosecution Service has listened to their case and changed its drug offences guidance.

The Sentencing Council has also launched a review into tougher sentences.

In a speech, Mr Elphicke is expected to say: “Let’s do what we did with guns.

“Let’s look at fentanyl problems in America, look at the growing numbers here, and take action before it’s too late.

“I believe a good start would be placing any quantity of fentanyl in our top sentencing category for harm.

"After all, fentanyl the size of a grain of sugar can be fatal.

“I also think ‘high’ or ‘extreme potency’ should be added to the list of aggravated factors.

“’Purity’ is already on that list.

"In terms of danger, and capacity to kill, potency is far more significant than purity.

“These measures would increase minimum jail terms from three years to six.

"After accounting for aggravating factors, most fentanyl suppliers would be looking at least 10 years behind bars. That is the strong message we are looking for.”

MP Charlie Elphicke and Michelle Parry are fighting to bring in tougher sentences for people caught supplying fentanyl
MP Charlie Elphicke and Michelle Parry are fighting to bring in tougher sentences for people caught supplying fentanyl

Robert Fraser, a former Castle Community College pupil, was found in his bedroom at his father’s home in St Francis Close, Deal, on November 19, 2016.

His mother Mrs Parry was informed of her son’s death by telephone as she was shopping in Primark.

Friends and family raised money for a memorial bench for the avid skateboarder which is placed on the promenade at north Deal.

His ashes were scattered during a firework display on Deal beach.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More