By Alric Lindsay
A 63-year-old tourist appeared in the Summary Court today, July 9, 2025, to face a charge of importation of cannabinol derivatives in the form of 17 gummies. After pleading guilty, the Chief Magistrate gave him an absolute discharge and did not record a conviction. However, the man was fined $1,000.
Background
According to Crown Counsel from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the man arrived on an American Airlines flight from Charlotte on July 3, 2025.
Upon the completion of a standard search by Customs & Border Control, a total of 17 gummies were found.
When interviewed, the man explained that he purchased the gummies in South Carolina, where they are reportedly legal. Reportedly, he uses them to assist with his insomnia, but was unaware that the gummies were illegal in the Cayman Islands.
Arguing on the tourist’s behalf, Attorney Prathna Bodden noted that he had previously visited the Cayman Islands three or four times. The purpose of this trip was for his wife to take a break after a recent emergency surgery. In the circumstances, the importation of the cannabinol derivatives was an oversight.
Concerning how a conviction could have a negative impact on the tourist, Bodden explained that the man is the guardian and carer for his sister with special needs. If he were to get a conviction, he would not be in a position to be his sister’s legal guardian. Additionally, no other family members can assume this legal responsibility.
Bodden suggested to the court that, bearing in mind the tourist’s age, his character and the circumstances specific to his plea, no conviction should be recorded.
After hearing from counsels, the Chief Magistrate said:
It continues to baffle our courts that persons coming to our country simply take it for granted that these matters are legal because they’re legal where they’re coming from.
It is something that we continue to deal with almost on a daily basis.
The Chief Magistrate added:
In any event, I take what has been said, this is not a large amount.
It is clearly for personal use. I find they’re extenuating circumstances because you come from a state where you can purchase these easily.
The Chief Magistrate ordered an absolute discharge with no conviction recorded. However, the tourist must pay costs to the Crown of $1,000 or spend 10 days in prison in default.
