M-Cat drugs death victim Aimee Costello's friends sentenced
Two women who provided their best friend with the drug that killed her have been given suspended prison sentences.
Aimee Costello, 20, from Leeds, died on 4 April last year after taking the drug mephedrone, also known as M-Cat.
Jessica Hooks, 21, and Kirsty McInnes, 22, admitted supplying the drug to Miss Costello.
Hooks was sentenced to 10 months in prison and McInnes six months, both suspended for 18 months.
Hooks had pleaded guilty to supplying the class B drug and also perverting the course of justice.
McInnes also admitted perverting the course of justice and being concerned in the supply of a class B drug.
The two friends had initially tried to hide their involvement by telling police officers Miss Costello had supplied the drugs herself.
After the sentencing, at Leeds Crown Court, Miss Costello's parents, Phillip and Heather, said: "She was a beautiful, fun-loving and caring girl who we miss very much.
"We hope that Aimee's death will serve as a warning against so-called party drugs as they can kill just as easily as drugs that are traditionally regarded as dangerous.
"While it gives us no satisfaction to see two of Aimee's former friends in court today we are pleased the record will be set straight that Aimee played no part in supplying the drugs that tragically led to her very untimely death."
Ch Insp Melanie Jones, from West Yorkshire Police, said: "This case should serve as a very stark reminder of devastating and lasting consequences of these type of drugs and why it is so important that we continue to raise awareness of the dangers associated with party drugs and legal highs."