A British mother has launched an urgent fundraising campaign to secure legal representation for her 21-year-old daughter, who was convicted of drug smuggling in Jamaica after authorities discovered cocaine hidden inside footwear in her luggage.
Sheryl Gentles says her daughter, Teraiya, was “misled and unknowingly placed” in the situation after traveling to the Caribbean island with a friend she had trusted for years.
Arrest at Airport
According to reports from the Jamaican Observer, the two young women were stopped by officials while attempting to depart from Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay.
Authorities allegedly discovered multiple packages of cocaine concealed inside several pairs of shoes in their luggage. Both women were subsequently charged, tried, and found guilty of drug offences under Jamaican law.
Teraiya now faces the possibility of a prison sentence of up to six years.
Mother Claims Daughter Was Misled
Gentles insists her daughter had no knowledge of the drugs.
“She was unknowingly placed in a situation where she was used and misled,” she said in a public fundraising appeal. “Teraiya had been told she was carrying shoes back to the UK, but the illegal contents were concealed without her knowledge or intent.”
The mother says the family is seeking funds to hire an experienced British barrister to review the case, challenge the evidence, and pursue legal avenues to overturn the conviction. The mother’s appeal has brought attention to the matter.
Push for Legal Support
The fundraising campaign highlights the financial challenges of mounting an international legal defense, including costs for travel, documentation, court proceedings, and representation.
Gentles stated that the effort is focused on ensuring her daughter receives fair legal review.
“Every contribution helps us move closer to ensuring she has the opportunity to present the full truth,” she said.
Government Response
A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office confirmed British authorities are providing consular assistance.
“We are supporting two British nationals detained in Jamaica and remain in contact with local authorities,” the spokesperson has been quoted in an LBC news report.
Broader Context
Cases involving international drug trafficking convictions often present complex legal challenges, especially when suspects claim lack of knowledge. Legal experts note that Caribbean drug laws tend to impose strict liability standards, making defenses difficult without strong evidence.
For Gentles, however, the fight is personal.
“We are working to seek justice and clear her name and reputation,” she said.
