‘Since publication of the Drug Offences guideline in 2012, there has been an increase in the number of cases before the courts involving newer drugs, such as synthetic opioids, which may have much higher potency and potential to cause harm than more common drugs. In addition, some new offences have been created, for example, those in the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016. We have therefore published guidance on the sentencing of offences involving newer and less common drugs, in particular covering how to assess the harm caused.’
Sentencing Council, 25th June 2018
Source: www.sentencingcouncil.org.uk
