St Vincent and the Grenadines: 34-year-old fined $800 EC for possessing drugs

St Vincent and the Grenadines: A 34-year-old was fined $800 EC for the offence of possessing and smuggling 763 grams of drugs. If he fails to pay the fine, he will be jailed for three months. 

The accused has been identified as Shelton Hopper, a 34-year-old Labourer of Petit Bordel. As per the details shared by the authorities, the accused attempted to smuggle 763 grams of cannabis to one of the Grenadines Islands.

On March 22, the authorities received information, they responded to the matter and took immediate action by arresting him for the offence of possession of a controlled drug and the purpose of drug trafficking. 

Subsequently, the accused Hooper appeared before the Kingstown Magistrate Court on Monday where the charges were read to him and he pleaded guilty to both offences. He was rebuked and discharged for the offence of smuggling drugs. 

As per the decision of the court, he was asked to pay the fine of $800.00 EC in one month for the possession of controlled drugs or else he will be punished to serve three months in jail. 

Additionally, with rising crimes in the country such as exporting of drugs or other illegal items, people are now asking authorities to take strict actions to combat the issue of criminal activities. They have also expressed their concern over the increase in consumption of drug substances which are creating a bad impact on the health of people of all ages. 

The people have demanded the administration to implement such strategies and plans which can play a crucial role in making St Vincent and the Grenadines, a drug-free nation. The authorities have also ensured that they have been conducting search operations with the motive to curb the criminal activities, ensuring safety and security of the nation. 

Several residents of the community took to their social media accounts and expressed their views and opinions on the news through their comments and feedback. 

One person commented the following “It is good that authorities are arresting such people, but I think they should get severe punishment as they are creating bad impact on the younger generation.”

Another person commented “Drugs should not be illegally consumed and smuggling of narcotic substances should be strictly prohibited.”