Two Sentenced for Importation and Money Laundering

A 35-year-old female and a 39-year-old male were convicted and sentenced following the Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control Service (CBC) investigation into the importation of fentanyl and money laundering. The pair were arrested in April 2022 after CBC Officers intercepted a package from California containing 5.22 grams of fentanyl in the form of 51 tablets, along with over 3 pounds of ganja. Following their conviction, both individuals were sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment for the fentanyl importation, with consecutive terms of 18 months for money laundering and 12 months for ganja possession. Additionally, the Court ordered that the cash seized during the investigation be forfeited. The investigation further revealed that proceeds from their drug operation were laundered through money transfer services and sent overseas. The transactions totaled more than CI$70,000. Minister DaCosta commends Deputy Director Bodden and the entire CBC team for their outstanding professionalism and diligence in this investigation. “This case serves as a clear reminder that our enforcement agencies are resolute and coordinated in their efforts to keep our Islands safe. The Ministry of District Administration and Home Affairs will continue to fully support CBC and all our law enforcement partners in their mission to protect our Islands from the threats posed by dangerous drugs, organized crime and illicit financial activities”. Deputy Director Marlon Bodden, who holds portfolio responsibility for investigations, stated: “This case demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting the Cayman Islands from the scourge of synthetic opioids and money laundering. The importation of fentanyl, even in small quantities, poses a severe risk to the Cayman Islands public health and safety. We commend the efforts of CBC Officers for their vigilance and professionalism, and we reaffirm that any attempt to exploit our borders for drug trafficking or money laundering will be met with severe consequences.” Mr. Bodden continued, “CBC remains dedicated to tracing and disrupting money- 2 laundering networks, employing asset forfeiture as a crucial strategy to deny criminals the proceeds of their illicit activities”. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 74,702 deaths in 2023 were attributed to synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. Exposure to fentanyl poses extreme risks to both users and handlers. Even very small amounts can cause respiratory depression, loss of consciousness, and death. Fentanyl is especially dangerous because it is often disguised in various shapes, colors, and counterfeit pills, and it can appear in multiple forms, including tablets, powders, crystals, and liquids. Accidental exposure through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact can be life-threatening, making it a serious hazard for the public and law enforcement personnel. The CBC is dedicated to using all available resources to address threats at our borders. We are working closely with both local and international law enforcement agencies to combat illegal drug trafficking, illicit finance, and other illegal activities, thereby ensuring the safety and security of our islands.