Drug case put off until next year
BVI News Staff - Monday, December 17th, 2012 at 7:04 AM
The drug importation trial of Lester DeCastro and Bellony Caena was adjourned again despite an indication that the Crown was in a position to begin.
When the case was called on December 4, Crown Counsel Leslie-Ann Faulkner told the court: “The matter was set for trial, but based on discussion with counsel on the other side in relations to Mr. DeCastro the matter may have to be adjourned.”
The attorney of DeCastro, Corrine George of JS Archibald and Company, explained to the court that she was unable to proceed with the matter.
George also sought to have her client’s bail varied in relations to his reporting requirements. She wanted him to be allowed to report to the East End Police Station instead of the Road Town Police Station.
Senior Magistrate Tamia Richards agreed with the request, adding that the variation would not commence until December 10.
Prior to adjourning the matter to February 27, Magistrate Richards stated that the trial must begin on that date because Caena has been in custody for a long time. Caena is represented by the McWelling Todman law firm.
The men have been charged with importation of diacetylmorphine (Heroin), unlawful procession of diacetylmorphine with intent to supply, conspiracy to import diacetylmorphine, conspiracy to import cocaine, unlawful importation of cocaine and unlawful possession of cocaine with intent to supply.
During a previous court appearance it was announced that tests had been conducted on the drugs in the matter.
The police arrested and charged DeCastro and Caena on November 1 after a boat in which they were travelling was intercepted by the new police boat (the Defender) and the Customs Department’s boat (the Searcher) off the west coast of Jost Van Dyke.
Approximately 20 kilograms of what is believed to be cocaine – 14 blocks and three bags containing pellets – were recovered. An additional three blocks were recovered later. The drug has an estimated value of $2.85M.
The vessel was detained
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20 kilos is barely $400,000! Who be valuing these things mehson? Nonsense about $4 million!
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