January 16 sentencing for cocaine smuggling

Christopher Thomas, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

A St James man who pleaded guilty to smuggling cocaine in his underwear will be brought back before the Montego Bay Resident Magistrate's Court for sentencing on January 16.

Franklin Dobson pleaded guilty to possession of, dealing in, and attempting to export two and a half pounds of cocaine when he appeared before the court on Monday, December 30. He was remanded in custody until January 16 when his police records should be brought before the court.

It is alleged that on December 21 at approximately 10:25 p.m., Dobson was at the Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay, preparing to board a flight that was going to New York. He was approached and questioned by the investigating officer.

Dobson was frisked and a rectangular package was found hidden in his underwear. When opened, the package was found to contain a substance resembling cocaine. Dobson was subsequently arrested and charged.

In court, Dobson's lawyer Adrian Dayes, asked for a social enquiry report to be prepared for his client as well as for the defendant to be taken to receive medical attention.

"We want to defer for a social enquiry report (to be prepared). I would also trouble you for one thing, that he be taken for medical attention as he is feeling discomfort," Dayes said to Resident Magistrate Ann-Marie Lawrence-Granger.

"I'll also ask for his antecedents. He will be brought back on January 16," said Lawrence-Granger as she ordered Dobson to be taken into police custody.