A woman who thought being a first-time offender could shield her from jail time was both fined and sentenced yesterday in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court.

Carmen Carter, charged with possession, dealing, taking steps to export and conspiring with someone to export ganja, pleaded guilty to all charges except the count of conspiracy.

The court was told that Carter was attempting to depart the island for Curaçao, when authorities found four pounds of ganja (1.82 kilograms) in her suitcase.

When asked by Senior Resident Magistrate Judith Pusey why she should not go to jail for the offence, Cater said, "Your Honour, it was the first time."

RM Pusey responded, "Well, did you know that if you sin one time you still going to jail?"

Carter was fined $6,400 or three months for possession, $12,800 or six months for dealing, and $36,000 or six months for taking steps to export.

Additionally, she is to serve a 12-month prison sentence.

The conspiracy charge was dropped and a fingerprint order made.