Winchester Man Jailed Again for Hiding Tiny Phone in Prison
Eight Weeks Added for Secret Roof Stash
A Winchester man already behind bars for refusing to hand over his phone password linked to the Corhampton murder probe has been slapped with an extra eight weeks in jail. Aston Hannis, 28, of Woolford Close, Stanmore, was first imprisoned under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) back in August 2019.
Last Friday, Judge Keith Cutler gave Hannis the fresh sentence after prison staff discovered a Zanco Wasp – dubbed the world’s smallest phone – cleverly hidden on the roof outside his cell window.
Denied Ownership, But Phone Linked to His Circle
Prosecutor Nick Fridd revealed that Hannis initially denied the phone was his. But investigation showed it was connected to Hannis’ “friends and associates.” Luckily, Mr Fridd confirmed the device had not been used for any criminal activity.
Family Feels the Fallout
Defence lawyer James Bloomer urged the court to consider the impact on Hannis’ wife and toddler child during sentencing. He told Judge Cutler: “Hannis recognises that his family have suffered due to his stupidity.” The judge acknowledged the strain, saying, “It is sad really that for the past six to eight months you have had this hanging over you, not knowing if you would be released or not.”
Judge: Crime Demands Immediate Jail
Despite sympathy for Hannis’ family, Judge Cutler stressed the seriousness of the offence: “Sadly, this crime needs to be met with immediate imprisonment.”
