Mahrah Al Nahyan, a 32-year-old member of the Abu Dhabi royal family, was found unresponsive on a London street after reportedly consuming cocaine. The incident occurred in June, while she was responsible for a three-year-old child who was discovered playing barefoot near a busy road. Upon police arrival, Al Nahyan remained unresponsive for approximately 30 minutes. When she regained consciousness, she reportedly reacted erratically, questioning the concern of bystanders.
Al Nahyan pleaded guilty to one count of child neglect at Southwark Crown Court. The court was informed that she has been receiving treatment for drug addiction at the Priory centre in Woking, Surrey, since the incident. A video captured by a passerby showed her lying on the pavement next to children's toys.
The prosecution stated that bystanders intervened due to the child's proximity to moving traffic. During a search, police found drug paraphernalia but no illegal substances. Al Nahyan's defense attorney noted that she has not used drugs since entering treatment and expressed remorse for her actions.
The judge sentenced Al Nahyan to a two-year community order with a rehabilitation requirement, imposed a £5,000 fine, and ordered her to pay £1,000 in costs. The judge emphasized the recklessness displayed by leaving the child unattended in a dangerous situation, highlighting the potential risks the child faced. Al Nahyan's future plans include completing a three-month rehabilitation program and attending Narcotics Anonymous.