(CMR) Samantha Leeann Christian (29) was sentenced on Monday to two years and eight months after admitting to carrying cocaine to Cayman Brac.
The incident occurred on September 15, 2017 at Owen Roberts International Airport when she was stopped after customs officer noticed suspicious behavior from a male travel companion.
When interrogated the man said that one of the packages belonged to his cousin – Christian. She was subsequently removed from the airplane. She had two suitcases, a gym bag, a pet carrier and a purse. These items were searched for contraband. She eventually admitted to having cocaine stored small bags in her underwear.
Christian said she got the drugs for $600 from an unidentified Jamaican man but would not identify him. Initially she pleaded guilty to simple possession but when the DPP's office removed to accept the plea she admitted to possession with intent to supply. Her defense attorney claimed that she was “under pressure” by a third party but refused to name that person also. She did admit that she intended to sell the drugs in Cayman Brac for some quick cash.
Her defense attorney Amelia Fosuhene, indicated that she was from a dysfunctional family and felt obligated to help someone that had been nice to her.
However, Magistrate Foldats indicated that the court often hears these excuses and there was nothing presented that mitigated against the need for immediate imprisonment.
“That is some mitigation but not sufficient to avoid immediate imprisonment,” If you reduce sentences because vulnerable people are used, then drug traffickers will use vulnerable people.”
The magistrate also commented on the impact that cocaine has on the lives of many including innocent children who are impacted by their parents' addiction; and other who are murdered because of the drug.
A one-third discount was applied for the plea.
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