January trial for Canadian on drug charge

ACanadian woman, who allegedly attempted to smuggle cocaine in food and drink packages, will stand trial in the Montego Bay Resident Magistrate’s Court on January 14 next year.

Nineteen- year- old student, Jenisa Willabus, of an Ontario, Canada, address, and charged with possession of, dealing in and attempting to export 40 and three- quarter pounds of cocaine, was given the new trial date when she appeared in court yesterday.

The allegations are that on January 28, Willabus attempted to board a flight to Canada at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay when her suitcase was searched.

FOUND INSIDE SUITCASE

During the search, 17 food- drink packs and a number of cake- mix packages were found inside the suitcase. When opened, they were found to contain a white substance resembling cocaine. Willabus was arrested and charged. Yesterday, Resident Magistrate Carolyn Tie confirmed with Clerk of the Court Reginald England, that the investigating officer would be the prosecution’s only trial witness.

“How many witnesses do you have?” asked RM Tie. “One, your honour,” said England. “Is the officer the sole witness?” the magistrate asked. “Yes, your honour,” said England. Attorney- at- law Martyn Thomas, who represented Willabus, told the court that Queen’s Counsel KD Knight had been appointed as the defendant’s new lawyer.

“Mr Knight now represents Ms Willabus, but he has not received copies of the statements and he is involved in a matter in Kingston, and cannot be here today,” said Thomas.

“What dates are being canvassed trial)?” asked RM Tie.

“January 14 to 16, your honour,” said Thomas.

“This case will be tried on January 14, next year, and the officer is bound over and is to ensure the exhibit ( evidence) is here),” said RM Tie, as she extended Willabus’s bail.

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