A 19-year-old British woman, Bella Culley, is currently incarcerated in Georgia. She is accused of drug-related offenses and has stated that she was coerced into smuggling narcotics into the country.
Culley, from Billingham, Teesside, was arrested at Tbilisi International Airport on May 10th. Authorities seized a significant quantity of drugs, including marijuana and hashish, from her travel bag. She has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
According to reports, Culley claims she was subjected to torture to force her involvement in the drug trade. She stated in court that she did not willingly participate and that she is a student and does not use drugs. Her lawyer, Malkhaz Salakaia, stated she was threatened with a hot iron.
Culley's lawyer also mentioned that she was unaware of the contents of her suitcase and had attempted to alert customs officials in Thailand. Additionally, it was revealed that the teenager is 18 weeks pregnant. Her family was prepared to pay bail, but the judge denied the request.
The next court hearing is scheduled for July 10th. The Georgian interior ministry has indicated that Culley faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years or life imprisonment. The charges include the illegal purchase, storage, and import of a large quantity of narcotics, including marijuana.
5 Comments
Donatello
I am sceptical of this. Her story is likely a cover up.
Michelangelo
I'm not convinced she was forced. This all sounds like she could have tried harder to inform authorities.
Leonardo
This is a classic case of someone being used by criminals. I hope she gets a fair trial.
Raphael
Smuggling drugs is a serious crime, even considering the circumstances.
Leonardo
The fact she's pregnant makes this even more heartbreaking.