On Friday 13th January, 2017, a mother & son were convicted unanimously by a Supreme Court jury, of offences relating to the importation of heroin, possessing drugs with intent to supply, possessing drug equipment, and possession of criminal proceeds.

Damon Morris (26 years old) and Denise Morris (55 years old) both of Paget Parish, were put on trial on 21st November 2016, and the trial finished with the verdicts on Friday 13th January 2016 after 7 ½ weeks of legal arguments, evidence, & testimony.

The jury heard that in December 2015, a passenger arrived in Bermuda on board a commercial flight, having secreted items inside his body which was confirmed through X-Ray. He subsequently excreted the items, which were found to be 86.38 grams of the controlled drug heroin. The heroin had a street value of $253,380.

Investigations led police to arrest Damon Morris and his mother for Conspiracy to Import Controlled Drugs. During the arrest, the police also found other controlled drugs, subsequently determined to be crack cocaine and cocaine. Police found $15,210 in Denise Morris’ possession, which was also seized.

Upon analysis, the cocaine powder was found to be 49.97 grams, and 10.14 grams of crack cocaine. These drugs had a combined value of $18,800.

Having heard the Crown case, and submissions from the defence, the jury found Damon Morris guilty of: Conspiracy to Import Heroin (Controlled Drug); Possession of Cocaine (controlled drug) with Intent to Supply, & Possession of Drug Equipment.

Denise Morris was acquitted of the drugs offences for which she had been charged, but found guilty of possessing criminal proceeds (cash) connected to the case.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our partners at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and H.M. Customs, for their respective roles in bringing these offenders to justice.

They will appear in the next Supreme Court arraignment session for a sentencing date.