The Tribune

By LEANDRA ROLLE

Tribune Staff Reporter

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

AN American tourist who was found with ecstasy pills in his luggage at Lynden Pindling International Airport was yesterday fined $1,000.

Joseph Cheova, 27 was arrested after border control agents found the pills in his carry-on bag on December 13.

He pleaded guilty to possession of dangerous drugs during his hearing before Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr.

The court was told that sometime around 3pm that day, police received information from customs and border patrol officers about two ecstasy pills being found in the tourist’s luggage.

As a result, Cheova was handed over to police and another search was carried out by officers who confirmed the discovery.

The defendant was subsequently arrested, cautioned and transported to the Drug Enforcement Unit where he denied the offence.

The prosecution said the estimated weight of the pills was two grams with a value of $40.

In mitigation, Cheova’s attorney, Tavarrie Smith told the court his client, who accepted full responsibility for his actions, was extremely remorseful for breaking Bahamian law.

Smith said the 27-year-old came to The Bahamas for a vacation with a large group of friends who he said placed the pills in Cheova’s bag.

“They weren’t purchased locally or sourced locally,” he added.

He also noted the pills were only a small amount and asked the court to consider a conditional discharge or fine, noting his client wanted to return home as quickly as possible.

After accepting Cheova’s guilty plea, Magistrate Allen fined the accused $1,000 or three months in prison.

Also charged for similar offences were Wilmore Dames, 40, Takeisha Carey, 34 and Terrence Rolle, 25.

Police allege the trio was found with 4.5 grams of marijuana with intent to supply the same on December 9.

However, the defendants pleaded not guilty to the offence and the matter was adjourned to February 15 for trial. Bail was granted at $5,000 each with one surety.