Marijuana plant.
Darren Charles, 22, of Stockfarm who pleaded guilty to two charges of possession of illegal drugs has been fined $1500.00.
Charles, who appeared before Chief Magistrate Candia Carette George on Thursday, March 27, 2014, pleaded guilty to possession of 104 grams of marijuana and possession with intent to supply marijuana.
The drugs were found in his possession during a security search before as he was seeking permission to visit the Prime Minister.
According to police prosecutor corporal David Andrew, on March 26, 2014 at about 11AM police officer Kenny Thomas was on duty at the Prime Minister’s Office located on the sixth (6th) floor of the Financial Centre in Roseau.
Charles approached Thomas and informed him that he was there to visit the Prime Minister. Thomas informed him that he would have to be searched before entering the office.
Charles was searched and nothing was found on him, but a search of a black bag which the defendant was carrying revealed a clear plastic bag with the alleged cannabis was found.
When Charles was cautioned about it he responded, “That’s some weed I have there for me to smoke. I don’t want my mother to know she hate those things there”.
He was further cautioned and taken to the Police Headquarters. The alleged drug was weighed at 104 grams.
The following day the defendant was informed that the drug tested positive as cannabis and was served with his charges.
When cautioned he responded, “I am just sorry about the situation and all those I embarrassed”.
Attorney at Law Saudia Cyrus pleaded with the Magistrate to reprimand Charles instead of imposing a custodial sentence.
“He is in his final year at the College he is very remorseful and embarrassed, he has suffered humiliation and punishment as he was placed in the cell,” Cyrus pleaded on Charles behalf.
She added that her client is a first time offender who cooperated fully with the police.
Cyrus also stated that he was using the marijuana for his diabetic condition since it reduces the amount of insulin that he takes.
“If u had a splif or an amount below 15 grams I would reprimand you but 104 grams is a lot,” Magistrate George told Charles.
She informed him that he made a “foolish move” as he should have known that there would be a security search as he was visiting the Prime Minister.
Magistrate George, who stated that she never knew marijuana was used for diabetic conditions, told Charles that his guilty plea and the fact that he is a first time offender goes to his credit.
She warned him however that he should not appear in her court again.
He was fined $1500 for possession with intent to supply which must be paid by June 30, 2014. In default of payment he will spend three months in jail.
No separate fine was given for the possession of marijuana.
Dominica Vibes News.
College student fined for marijuana possession | DA Vibes
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