Kingston, Jamaica – A St Elizabeth man accused of trying to smuggle cocaine to the UK in tea luggage is about to face trial on December 8 within the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court docket.
Raphael Marsdon, 36, a musician and automotive washer from Santa Cruz, was charged after a suspicious package deal was intercepted at a New Kingston courier firm on December 17, 2024. The package deal, which was sure for the UK, reportedly contained over a pound of cocaine hid in ginger tea luggage, together with different meals objects.
Marsdon is charged with possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine, trying to export cocaine, and conspiracy to export cocaine. His bail was prolonged throughout his newest court docket look on Tuesday. He’s being represented by lawyer Vincent Wellesley.
In accordance with police experiences, when cautioned, Marsdon admitted that he had helped ship the package deal for a person who frequented his sister’s automotive wash. He claimed he didn’t know the person’s title and stated he agreed to help as a result of the person lacked correct identification. Marsdon additionally instructed investigators that he grew to become suspicious of the contents, stating, “The tea combine really feel completely different—it was clean.” He stated the person gave him $5,000 to “purchase a drink.”
Investigations are ongoing as Marsdon prepares to reply to the fees in court docket later this 12 months.