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by pltm
(PLTM) - Rebecca Prince of Los Angeles, California was formally cautioned and arrested upon her arrival to the Territory via Native Son on August 31st, after she was allegedly found with 5.5 grams of cannabis.
Prince, who was charged for the possession of a controlled drug, pleaded guilty in her appearance at the Magistrate’s Court yesterday, September 1st 2016.
In her defense, her Attorney, Patrick Thompson informed the court that the 32 year-old accused will be making 33 on September 2nd and expressed gratitude to the court if the matter could be disposed of the very same day.
After being handed supporting documents by Thompson, in addition to his verbal submission, Senior Magistrate Tamia Richards stated that the court needs time to review what she deemed a very detailed submission.
“This is an extremely long submission I have to consider. I would not be able to deliver any sentencing on this matter. The court would have to benefit the opportunity to peruse this very detailed submission. I can’t do anything else.”
The court then ordered that the defendant remain in police custody until Monday, September 5th when she will return with a verdict.
Persistently, Thompson informed the court that the defendant is one who suffers from an extreme anxiety disorder and stated, “Her matter has been exacerbated by her time in custody and will worsen.”
He then inquired if the matter can be heard before Monday or possibly be transferred to another Magistrate. This suggestion was quickly refuted by Magistrate Richards.
According to the allegation presented to the court by Crown Counsel Melissa Brewley, on August 31st around 3:15 pm, the accused entered the Territory via Native Son at the West End Ferry Terminal.
While going through standard procedures at the dock, her luggage was searched by officers of the Customs Department, who discovered a clear container that concealed eight wrapped items, noted to be cannabis.
The container and its contents were highlighted to Prince, to which she indicated that it was medical marijuana.
Officers then informed the accused that it was against the law to have such contents in the Territory and she replied, “I am sorry, I did not know.”
Thomson provided the court with authentic prescriptions from the medical doctor of the accused and noted that the drug was being medicinally taken by the accused for her disability.
He also presented documents highlighting that the accused, at the time of her arrest, had a psychiatric service dog by her side, which is used as an aid for her disability. He informed the court that traveling triggers her disability.
The court reminded the Attorney that the highlighted prescription was not prescribed by any Medical Doctor authorized to practice in the Territory and stated that above all, the laws of the Territory stand, and such a drug is not permitted in this jurisdiction.
“It is not a mitigating factor,” exclaimed Magistrate Richards.
The matter was adjourned until September 5th 2016.
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