Man pleads guilty to "very serious" drug importation

Friday 04 June 2021

A Plymouth-based deliveryman was caught smuggling "at least £30,000 worth" of synthetic cannabinoids into the island earlier this week.

James Luke Bickley, 32, appeared in the Magistrate's Court on Thursday morning.

Bickley arrived in the island by boat on Bank Holiday Monday. He was investigated by border agents, and two internally concealed packages were discovered containing ADB-Butinaca. 

The Court heard that the packages were yet to be fully analysed, however, the current estimates suggest they contain at least £30,000 worth of synthetic cannabinoids, and potentially a lot more. 

Bickley, who has a criminal record for drug offences in the UK, pleaded guilty to the importation charge. 

Pictured: Bickley appeared in Guernsey's Magistrate's Court for the first time on Thursday morning, where he pleaded guilty to importing prohibited substances. 

The Crown Prosecutor requested a 28-day adjournment so that the drugs could be examined and the full amount established. An application was made to keep Bickley in custody throughout those proceedings.

The Prosecutor argued that there was a "high possibility of Mr Bickley absconding" as he has no family ties to Guernsey and has been charged with a serious offence. 

Defence Advocate Chris Green did not make an application for bail, saying Bickley was "realistic" that it would not be granted. 

"This is a very serious offence destined for the Royal Court," said Judge Catherine Fooks, who agreed that Bickley would pose a flight risk.

"You have a long list of previous offences and you have a complete lack of community ties."

Bickley will appear for committal later this month.