A British teenager jailed in Georgia may soon walk free. Bella Culley, 19, is facing serious drug charges. However, a court has suggested she could be released if her family pays a large fine.
Culley was arrested earlier this year at Tbilisi airport. Officials said she was caught with cocaine worth around £410,000. Local police accused her of trying to smuggle the drugs into the country. If found guilty, she could face a prison sentence of up to 20 years.
The teenager has been in a Georgian detention center since her arrest. Reports confirm she is pregnant, which has raised concerns about her health and welfare. Her mother has been seen visiting her in prison and has spoken publicly about the family’s distress.
Court Hints at Possible Release
During a recent court session, lawyers revealed that prosecutors may allow her release if a financial penalty is paid. The sum has not been fixed, but one legal source described it as “many zeros.” Media outlets have estimated the amount could be more than £100,000.
If the fine is agreed and paid, Bella Culley could be freed without serving a long prison term. However, it remains unclear whether this would mean a full release or a suspended sentence.
Her legal team is currently in negotiations. They are said to be working hard to secure a deal that avoids decades behind bars.
Another report highlights how Indians face growing convictions for sexual offences in the UK.
Concerns About Her Treatment
Culley’s family has expressed worry about the conditions in the Georgian prison system. Past reports have described overcrowding and poor medical facilities. Her pregnancy has made those concerns more urgent.
The British embassy in Tbilisi is believed to be monitoring the case closely. Officials have offered consular support, but they cannot intervene directly in legal matters.
Human rights groups have also shown interest. Some argue that long prison terms for drug smuggling in Georgia are harsh compared to European standards. Others note that the country has strict anti-drug laws and rarely grants exceptions.
