By Alric Lindsay
Amy Reinke, a Caymanian studying in Canada and visiting Cayman, was fined $480 in the Summary Court today, December 24, 2024, for the importation of twelve vape pens said to contain 94% THC. No convictions were recorded against her.
Background
According to Crown Counsel Kenneth Ferguson, Reinke arrived on WestJet Airlines in Cayman on December 19, 2024, from Toronto, Canada.
When Customers & Border Control officers were completing routine checks, they found twelve vape pens.
Reinke was cautioned and interviewed when she explained that she brought in the vape pens for personal use. Regarding this, it was noted that vape pens with THC can be legally purchased in Canada, and she was unaware of the laws in Cayman regarding THC.
Sentencing
Arguing on Reinke’s behalf, attorney Jonathon Hughes explained that the experience has been a “very, very trying time for her.”
He added:
She is not New York financier down here to stay in a Seven Mile Beach condo with his family for the weekend.
She’s a student visiting family and not of substantial financial means.
It was also noted that Reinke gave a legitimate reason for bringing the vape pens with her upon arrival, and the Summary Court was asked to consider this.
After hearing from Crown Counsel and defence counsel, the Chief Magistrate found extenuating circumstances in Reinke’s case and ordered an unconditional discharge with no conviction recorded. She was also fined $40 for each vape pen.
