A 31-year-old California-based sales agent has been sentenced to three months in jail after failing to pay a $1,500 fine imposed by the Belize City Magistrate’s Court. Cameron David Rose was charged with importing 47 grams of cannabis through the Philip Goldson International Airport last Friday.
According to reports, Rose arrived in Belize on Alaska Airlines Flight #1334 from Los Angeles and was stopped by Customs Officers at 6:45 p.m. after a vacuum-sealed plastic bag containing marijuana was discovered in his luggage. A subsequent search led to the finding of more cannabis concealed inside a brown leather handbag.
When questioned about the substance, Rose promptly admitted it was cannabis, prompting formal charges for importation of a controlled drug. Unrepresented before the court, he pleaded guilty to the offense.
In addition to serving three months in jail unless the fine is paid sooner, Rose was also ordered to pay $1,500 plus $5 in court costs forthwith. However, he failed to settle the debt, resulting in his immediate remand to the Belize Central Prison.
The case highlights the severity of penalties imposed on individuals found guilty of importing controlled substances into the country. The incident serves as a stark reminder for tourists and visitors to respect local laws and regulations regarding narcotics.
Source: Breaking Belize News
