Jamaica— A British man who was caught last month trying to smuggle cocaine onto a flight to England has been sentenced to two years imprisonment by the St James Parish Court.
David Thomas, 58, of London, England, was also slapped with a $3 million fine during his sentencing hearing on Wednesday, after pleading guilty to the charges of possession, dealing, and attempting to export 16 pounds of cocaine.
During Thomas’ sentencing hearing, his attorney Michael Hemmings noted that his client pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity despite the fact that the Crown’s file had not yet been completed.
Hemmings highlighted an aggravating feature, revealing that his client had been convicted of a similar offence in his country 14 years earlier, and emphasised that it was unjustifiable for him to have ended up in this predicament once again. He said, however, that after 14 years, he had managed to stay on the right path, demonstrating that he is capable of being a law-abiding citizen.
The lawyer stated that his client is not beyond rehabilitation and would not reap any benefits if his endeavours were successful. He also referred to Thomas’ caution statement in which he explicitly stated to the police that no promises were made to him.
Hemming said that duress was a factor, pointing out that in situations where duress is alleged, individuals are usually fearful and end up carrying the weight of responsibility alone.
The attorney stated that his client has shown remorse for his actions, admitting that the amount of cocaine was substantial, and asked that his client not be sent to prison.
“A fine can be imposed and he can be removed from the jurisdiction immediately and never to return,” stated Hemmings.
British citizen sentenced to two years for cocaine smuggling
