No New Developments in Mia O’Brien’s Case as Family Awaits Appeal

Lead No fresh updates emerged today regarding British law student Mia O’Brien’s life sentence in Dubai, as her family continues preparations for an upcoming appeal and fundraising efforts.

Nut Graf The 23-year-old Liverpool native remains incarcerated in Dubai Central Prison following her July conviction on drug charges, with her legal team gearing up for a hearing and her family pressing on with international support campaigns.

Appeal Preparations Underway Mia O’Brien, a former University of Liverpool law student, was convicted in late July of possessing 50 grams of cocaine and sentenced to 25 years behind bars and a £100,000 fine after a one-day hearing. Her appeal is slated for the coming weeks, with her lawyers filing motions to challenge the trial’s language barriers and evidentiary procedures. Her mother, Danielle McKenna, has publicly pledged to attend the hearing, pending travel permissions.

Family Fundraising Continues Despite a GoFundMe page being removed for policy violations, the O’Brien family has launched alternative crowdfunding channels to cover legal fees and travel costs for Dubai. Donations topped £700 before the first fundraiser was taken down, highlighting widespread public sympathy.

Conditions in Dubai Central Prison According to family accounts, O’Brien endures overcrowded cells, minimal staffing, and reports of inmate violence-conditions her mother describes as “horrendous” and detrimental to Mia’s health and morale.

International Response The UK Foreign Office has confirmed consular support remains in place, stating officials are “in close contact with local authorities to ensure Mia O’Brien’s welfare” throughout the appeal process.

Background of the Case O’Brien was arrested in October 2024 after authorities discovered a single 50-gram “chunk” of cocaine in an apartment she was visiting with friends. She maintained her innocence and pleaded not guilty to intent to supply, insisting she was “caught up” by others and never planned to traffic drugs.

Next Steps The family anticipates the appeal hearing to occur within weeks, after which any delay in proceedings or additional legal maneuvers will likely determine Mia O’Brien’s immediate future in the UAE justice system.

Subheadings

  • Appeal Hearing Expected Soon
  • Family Fundraising Efforts Adapt
  • Prison Conditions Highlighted