In a significant action against food crime, three individuals have been sentenced following successful prosecutions by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) after an extensive investigation into a £300,000 chicken theft and fraud operation in North Wales.

The defendants, Rana Dhaia from Wolverhampton, and Darren Williams and Elliott Smith, both from Anglesey, faced sentencing on Friday, February 2, at Caernarfon Crown Court:

• Rana Dhaia received a custodial sentence of 4 years and 3 months.
• Darren Williams was sentenced to 2 years imprisonment and suspended for 2 years, with a requirement to undertake 300 hours of unpaid work.
• Elliott Smith received a suspended sentence of 2 years imprisonment, with a requirement to undertake 250 hours of unpaid work.

The Food Standards Agency’s National Food Crime Unit (NFCU), in collaboration with partners, conducted an unannounced visit that provided crucial evidence to assist the police in their investigation. During the operation, forged handwritten dispatch notes were discovered, indicating the theft of £300,000 worth of chicken, raising significant traceability concerns.

Andrew Quinn, Head of the NFCU, welcomed the sentences, emphasizing their importance in deterring potential food criminals. He commended the collaborative efforts of the CPS and North Wales Police, highlighting the strength of partnership in combatting food fraud and ensuring consumer protection.

Emmalyne Downing, Crown Advocate, acknowledged the complexity of fraud cases and underscored the close collaboration between the CPS, North Wales Police Economic Crime Unit, and the Food Standards Agency in Wales in building a robust case against the defendants, resulting in their convictions.

Detective Constable David Hall of the North Wales Police Economic Crime Unit expressed appreciation for the outcome, noting the significant financial losses incurred by the 2 Sisters Food Group and the potential wider implications on traceability if the offenders had not been apprehended.

The case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance against food crime. The NFCU encourages anyone with suspicions of food crime to report them safely and confidentially online or by phone.The successful prosecution underscores the commitment of law enforcement and regulatory agencies to uphold food safety standards and combat fraudulent activities within the food industry.

Source:https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/news/fsa-welcomes-custodial-sentence-in-food-crime-case