A young pregnant woman from the UK, Bella May Culley, is currently in a Georgian prison after being caught attempting to smuggle marijuana and hashish into the country. Culley, aged 19 and eight months pregnant, was initially held in unfavorable conditions at Rustavi Prison Number Five, with limited amenities. However, her mother, Lyanne Kennedy, revealed that Culley has now been relocated to a different facility with improved facilities, such as a dedicated mother and baby unit, access to a communal kitchen, a private shower, and proper toilet facilities.
Kennedy mentioned that Culley’s living conditions have significantly improved at the new prison, where she can engage in activities like cooking, walking outside for two hours, and enjoying better sanitary facilities. The family is actively working towards bringing Culley back home, emphasizing their commitment to supporting her and her unborn child.
Allegations suggest that Culley was coerced by criminals in Thailand to transport the drugs, leading to her current situation. Despite a plea deal involving a substantial payment by Culley’s family, she is still awaiting her final sentence, which is expected to be delivered soon. Her lawyer aims to appeal to the Georgian president for clemency once the legal process concludes.
In light of Culley’s advanced pregnancy, her legal team has requested her release on bail, which was denied by the judge due to lack of legal grounds for alteration. However, assurances have been made that Culley will not be separated from her baby once born. The ultimate decision regarding her incarceration and potential extradition to the UK remains uncertain.