Pregnant Bella Culley, facing drug smuggling charges, is seeking early release from jail before her expected delivery, as disclosed by sources. Despite reaching a plea agreement for a two-year prison term, the 19-year-old, due to give birth in December, awaits formal sentencing next week for allegedly trying to import drugs from Thailand to Georgia.
In a court session in Tbilisi, it was revealed that Culley’s family, including her parents who paid a substantial sum of £138,000 to the court, is involved in the legal proceedings. The location of her sentence execution remains uncertain, whether in a local women’s prison or through house arrest or extradition to the UK.
Efforts are underway by Culley’s legal team to apply for a presidential pardon, which if granted, would facilitate her immediate departure from Georgia. In case the pardon request fails, sources suggest she might be granted parole before childbirth due to her pregnant status and exemplary behavior during detention.
Should all other options falter, reports indicate Culley will be transferred to a nearby hospital to deliver her baby while in custody. Special accommodations are expected to be provided for her and her child’s welfare within the facility.
During a recent court appearance, Culley, dressed in a grey cardigan and pink t-shirt with a new hairstyle, expressed a mix of surprise and happiness upon hearing details of the plea deal. Notably, her lawyer previously hinted that the fine amount paid could influence the duration of her sentence, potentially leading to its cancellation based on the sum provided.
In a post-hearing statement, Culley’s mother acknowledged the court’s demand for a higher amount than what was paid, hinting at challenges faced in meeting the financial requirements for her daughter’s release. The court reportedly initially requested £220,000 for Culley’s freedom.
Both the prosecution and Culley’s legal representative confirmed the plea agreement and subsequent negotiations, signaling progress in the legal proceedings. Culley’s lawyer expressed the desire for a final verdict to be issued by the judge in an upcoming hearing.
Despite a plea for bail made by Culley’s lawyer citing her cooperation and advanced pregnancy, the judge denied the request, citing the absence of legal grounds for altering her current conditions. Culley sought reassurance from her lawyer about keeping her baby with her if she returned to jail, receiving a comforting response.
Culley, a student nurse from Billingham, Teesside, faced a tumultuous journey from Thailand to Georgia, culminating in her arrest for alleged drug trafficking activities. She recounted being coerced by criminals under threats of violence against her and her family, leading to her involvement in the illicit operation.
Post-hearing, Culley’s lawyer assured the press of her well-being during pregnancy, affirming her ability to bond with her child post-birth.
