by Tashieka Mair, Star Writer

WESTERN BUREAU

A father of six, who pleaded guilty to drug possession charges in the Montego Bay Resident Magistrate's Court on Wednesday, was given a lenient sentence of six weeks in custody.

Selburn Allen, a 41-year-old cabinetmaker of a Kingston address, was charged with possession, dealing in and attempting to export approximately seven kilogrammes (15 pounds) of ganja, which was destined for Curaçao.

Defence attorney George Duncan pleaded for leniency, asking that his client not be given a custodial sentence, as his children, the eldest of whom is 15 years old, depend on him for support.

He said Allen made a mistake but was remorseful about his actions.

But RM Wilson Smith told the accused that at his age, he should be living an exemplary life that others can follow.

The RM also imposed fines of $30,000 for possession, $48,000 for dealing and $96,000 for attempting to export.

The facts are that Allen checked in at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, St. James, on September 6 to board an outgoing Air Jamaica flight to Curaçao. He left his suitcase at the check-in counter, on the premise that he was going to get money to pay the cost for his overweight baggage.

However, when he did not return, the police were called in. Allen was subsequently apprehended, and when the suitcase was searched, several fake bammies containing the drugs were found. He admitted that he knew the items contained contraband.