Bjorn Burke, Staff Reporter

A senior citizen who attempted to smuggle a quantity of ganja out of the island, was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment when she appeared before the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court last Tuesday.

Charged with possession of, dealing in, conspiracy to export and taking steps preparatory to export ganja is 62-year-old Rebecca Peynado of a Coxswain district, Clarendon, address. She pleaded guilty to all charges except conspiracy to export ganja.

Allegations are that, on April 13, approximately 9:40 p.m., the accused checked in to board a flight at the Norman Manley International Airport en route to Curacao.

It is reported that Peynado was stopped and checked by a port security officer. Irregularities were felt between her legs.

It is believed she was taken to a holding area where she was further searched by police personnel. In total they found 16 pellets, one cylindrical-shaped parcel and two rectangular-shaped parcels, wrapped in transparent plastic, containing compressed vegetable matter resembling ganja.

The contraband was reportedly found strapped between her legs. In total, the drugs weighed 1.5 pounds.

"Any reason you shouldn't go to jail for it ma'am?" Senior Resident Magistrate Judith Pusey asked.

"Yes, Your Honour, because I shouldn't have it on my person and I shouldn't try to export it. I'm sorry," Peynado replied.

"That's all?" RM Pusey remarked, seemingly unmoved.

Subsequently, Peynado was fined $2,600 or serve six months for possession; $4,800 or six months for dealing; $9,600 or serve six months for taking steps preparatory to export ganja and sentenced to 12 months in prison. A fingerprint order was also made against the elder.