British Teenager Bella Culley to Remain in Georgian Prison Ahead of Drugs Trial

Bella Culley, an 18-year-old British national from Billingham, Teesside, will remain in custody in Georgia until her trial on drug-smuggling charges, a court in Tbilisi has confirmed. Culley, who is pregnant and due to give birth soon, was arrested upon arrival at Tbilisi International Airport in May after authorities said she was carrying a significant quantity of illegal drugs.

The case has drawn international attention due to Culley’s family background and the potential severity of penalties she faces under Georgian law.

Arrest and Charges

Culley, the great-granddaughter of former Labour MP Frank Cook, was arrested on arrival in Tbilisi after security personnel found up to 12 kilograms of marijuana and over 2 kilograms of hashish in her luggage, which she had brought from Thailand.

Georgian prosecutors have charged her with drug smuggling. If convicted, Culley could face up to 20 years in prison or a life sentence. The arrest sparked significant media coverage, given both the scale of the seizure and Culley’s youth.

Court Hearing Details

During a hearing in Tbilisi, Culley addressed the court, stating:

“I hope you understand my story through my eyes. I never thought something like this would happen to me.”

Her lawyer, Malkhaz Salakia, emphasized that there was no evidence of intent to commit a crime. He argued that Culley had been coerced into carrying the drugs unknowingly, and requested that she be released under strict supervision, citing her pregnancy and the fact that her family was present in Georgia to support her.

Culley concluded her submission by thanking the court in Georgian, saying “madloba”, reflecting her attempt to show respect for local authorities.

Plea Proposal and Judge’s Decision

Culley’s defense team offered a plea agreement of 50,000 Georgian lari (approximately £13,500), suggesting immediate release while awaiting trial. Her lawyer highlighted that, as a pregnant woman, she required special care during the summer months and should have the opportunity to experience motherhood in freedom.

Despite these arguments, the judge ruled that no new evidence had been presented to justify her release. Consequently, Culley will remain in detention until her trial begins on 2 September, unless a plea deal is reached beforehand.

Family Support and Emotional Impact

During the 30-minute hearing, Culley exchanged smiles and glances with her mother, Lyanne Kennedy, who was visibly emotional after learning the sex of her unborn grandchild. Reports indicate Kennedy told her daughter, “I’ll come and see you tomorrow, I love you.”

The presence of her family in Georgia has been cited as a mitigating factor by her legal team, emphasizing that they are available to provide support and there is little risk of influencing witnesses, as local authorities are overseeing the investigation.

Background on Bella Culley

Culley, from Billingham on Teesside, turned 19 in June. She is a first-time expectant mother. Her great-grandfather, Frank Cook, was a Labour MP for Stockton North for 27 years and served as a deputy speaker of the Commons before passing away in 2012.

Her arrest has drawn attention not only because of her family background but also because it underscores the risks faced by international travelers carrying large quantities of controlled substances.

Legal and Diplomatic Response

The UK Foreign Office has confirmed that it is supporting the family of a British woman detained in Georgia. Meanwhile, Cleveland Police in Teesside confirmed that an 18-year-old woman from Billingham was arrested on suspicion of drug offenses and remains in custody.

Georgian authorities are handling the investigation in accordance with national law, which includes severe penalties for drug smuggling. The case highlights the stringent drug regulations in Georgia and the potential consequences for international travelers found in possession of controlled substances.

International Context and Travel Safety

Cases like Culley’s emphasize the importance of understanding local laws when traveling abroad. Many countries have strict drug enforcement policies, and travelers carrying illegal substances can face severe legal consequences, including long-term imprisonment.

Legal experts note that pregnancy does not exempt individuals from prosecution, although it may influence decisions regarding detention conditions and access to healthcare while in custody.

Potential Outcomes

If convicted of drug smuggling in Georgia, Culley could face:

• 20 years in prison

• Life imprisonment

The outcome will depend on the court proceedings scheduled for September, as well as any potential plea agreements reached between her legal team and Georgian prosecutors.

Legal observers have noted that the international attention surrounding the case could influence the proceedings but emphasized that Georgian courts maintain strict procedures for drug-related offenses.

Conclusion

The detention of Bella Culley in Georgia highlights the serious legal consequences of drug smuggling for international travelers. With her trial set for September, her case continues to draw attention from the media, human rights advocates, and the UK government.

Culley’s family, legal representatives, and the wider public await developments, particularly concerning her pregnancy and the possibility of securing her release through a plea agreement. The coming weeks will be critical as her legal team navigates both Georgian law and international diplomatic support.

This case serves as a reminder for travelers worldwide to adhere to local laws, particularly regarding controlled substances, and underscores the challenges faced by young individuals in international legal systems.