Man gets 2 years for smuggling ganja

A man nabbed at the Norman Manley International Airport for attempting to smuggle a quantity of ganja out of the island was sentenced to two years' imprisonment when he appeared before the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court on Thursday.

He is Gregory Barrett, who pleaded guilty to charges of possession of, dealing in, and taking steps preparatory to export ganja.

The court heard that on the day in question, Barrett, before boarding a flight en route to CuraAao, was stopped by airport officials. A search of his luggage unearthed 10 pounds 2 ounces of ganja. The police were alerted and the accused man was subsequently arrested and charged.

In court, Barrett sought to shed light on the matter.

CuraAao

"Yes miss, I was supposed to carry some goods to CuraAao. Them ask me to carry some pear and mango," he explained.

"Is there any reason you shouldn't go to prison for it?" asked Senior Resident Magistrate Judith Pusey

"Well, you know, I should have known what I was carrying," Barrett replied.

"I know you well and know you shouldn't take anything for anybody," RM Pusey replied.

Subsequently, the sitting magistrate ordered Barrett to pay a fine of $40,500 or serve six months for possession; pay $81,000 or serve six months for dealing in ganja; pay $162,000 or serve six months for taking steps to export ganja; and ordered to serve two years in prison.

If the fines are not paid,

the sentences are to run concurrently.