A plea agreement is in the works for Bella Culley, a British 19-year-old ‘drug mule’ who is currently incarcerated in Georgia. Bella, who is six months pregnant, was arrested earlier this year for allegedly smuggling drugs into the country. The court in Tbilisi, Georgia, is finalizing the details of the plea deal, which could lead to Bella’s release upon payment of an undisclosed fine. The amount paid will impact the length of her sentence, with the potential for avoiding jail time based on the sum provided.
During a recent hearing at Tbilisi City Court, Judge Giorgi Gelashvili inquired about the progress of the plea agreement. Bella’s defense lawyer, Malkhaz Salakaia, mentioned ongoing discussions with the family to reach a decision. Prosecutor Zaza Koridze confirmed that the specifics of the agreement are still being ironed out, leading to a postponement of the hearing until October 28. Bella’s mother and grandmother were present at the hearing.
Mr. Salakaia informed the media that negotiations concerning the plea agreement are nearing completion, with Bella’s father striving to gather the required funds. He emphasized that once the family meets the financial obligations, the agreement will be finalized, potentially leading to Bella’s release. The lawyer clarified that the family’s ability to raise the full amount will determine the duration of Bella’s imprisonment.
If the necessary funds are not secured by November 2, the process may be extended. Bella, originally from Billingham, Teesside, went missing in Thailand before reappearing in Georgia, where she was apprehended at Tbilisi International Airport in May with marijuana and hashish in her possession. Despite claiming innocence and citing coercion, Bella faces legal repercussions in the foreign country. She expressed her desire to clear her name and make her family proud during past court appearances.
In a subsequent court session, it was revealed that Bella is expecting a boy. She shared her disbelief at the unfolding events and hoped for understanding from the court. The case continues to evolve, with the next hearing scheduled for later this month.