Woman fined $60,000 for smuggling contraband into prison on Mother's Day

A St Catherine woman who tried to give her incarcerated son a thumb drive during a Mother's Day visit to a correctional facility has been fined $60,000 or 30 days' imprisonment.

The woman, Kenisha Gardener of Spanish Town, pleaded guilty during a hearing before the St Catherine Parish Court on Monday.

“Guilty with explanation, ma’am,” Gardener told Acting Senior Parish Court Judge Janelle Nelson-Gayle, explaining that her son had advised her it was acceptable to bring the thumb drive, which she said contained music.

The incident took place on Sunday, May 11, when Gardener visited the Tamarind Farm Adult Correctional Centre and attempted to pass the device to her son.

A correctional officer intercepted the attempt and reported it to a superior. The police were subsequently called in, and Gardener was arrested and later granted station bail.

In court, Judge Nelson-Gayle reminded Gardener of the gravity of her actions, pointing out that the offence carries a maximum fine of $3 million under the law.

“This is a very serious matter,” the judge warned, before stressing the importance of seeking proper authorisation before bringing items into penal institutions.

Gardener, who had no previous convictions, was ultimately fined $60,000 or ordered to spend 30 days behind bars if the fine is not paid.

- Rasbert Turner

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