SHOWN LABHYA FROM ETRURIA JAILED IN STOKE-ON-TRENT FOR FAILURE TO REGISTER AND KNIFE POSSESSION AFTER DRUG BINGE

In October 2017, a disturbing case emerged involving Shawn Labhya, a known sex offender who has been residing in a makeshift tent in the Etruria area. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in monitoring individuals with a history of sexual offenses, especially those living outside conventional housing arrangements.

Labya, who was previously convicted in 2011 for multiple offenses including causing a child to engage in sexual activity, was required to register on the sex offenders’ register. As part of his legal obligations, he was mandated to update police annually about his current residence. On September 15, he registered as being of no fixed address, which meant he was required to notify authorities weekly of any changes in his whereabouts.

However, on September 22, just a week after his registration, Labhya failed to inform the police of his location. This lapse was attributed to a recent binge on monkey dust, a potent and dangerous drug that can impair judgment and memory. His drug use appeared to have caused him to lose track of his responsibilities, leading to his failure to comply with the registration requirements.

Subsequently, on September 28, police officers located and arrested Labhya. During his arrest, they discovered a small lock knife in his man bag. Labhya, who had transitioned from living in Etruria to setting up a makeshift home in a field, was taken into custody and brought before Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court.

In his police interview, Labhya admitted to having taken monkey dust. He explained that due to the effects of the drug, he believed he was still within the previous week and was unaware of his failure to update his details. He also claimed that the knife was intended for opening packages and preparing food, dismissing any malicious intent.

Labhya, who is currently homeless, pleaded guilty to two charges: failing to comply with the notification requirements of the sex offenders’ register and possession of a knife. The court was informed that he has a history of four previous convictions related to failure to notify authorities, indicating a pattern of non-compliance.

Judge Jinder Singh Boora addressed the court and emphasized the seriousness of the offenses. He stated, “The defendant registered with the police on September 15 as being of no fixed abode. When a person is of no fixed abode, they are required to register weekly. He should have notified them on September 22, but he failed to do so. The possession of a knife further complicates the matter.”

He also acknowledged Labhya’s homelessness but stressed the importance of public safety. The judge sentenced him to two months in prison, noting that breaches of notification requirements are taken very seriously by the court. While recognizing the gravity of Labhya’s sexual offenses, the judge indicated that this particular breach, although serious, was not at the highest level of severity, especially considering his current homeless status. The sentence aims to serve as a reminder of the importance of compliance and the risks posed by individuals with such histories who fail to adhere to legal obligations.