New York Mother and Son Remanded in Custody Over €1 Million Cannabis Seizure at Dublin Airport
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A mother and son from New York have been remanded in custody after appearing in Dublin District Court on Monday, charged in connection with the seizure of almost €1 million worth of cannabis at Dublin Airport. The pair were arrested following a customs operation on Sunday.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
Hellasha Tingman (48) and her son, Shawndell Gaston (30), both of the Bronx, New York, USA, face charges of unlawful posession and importation of cannabis, as well as possession for sale or supply. Garda Sinéad Deevy testified in court regarding the arrest of Ms. Tingman at Terminal 2 customs, under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
According to Garda Deevy’s evidence, Ms. Tingman made no reply when charged with possessing 26.2kg of cannabis, estimated to be worth approximately €524,000, found within two suitcases. Defense barrister Paddy Flynn, instructed by solicitor Tracy Horan, clarified that the total seizure encompassed 49kg of cannabis, with an estimated street value of nearly €1 million.
Financial Circumstances and Bail Submission
During questioning, Mr. flynn highlighted Ms.Tingman’s financial situation, stating she earns $177 per week while paying $790 in rent. Judge Treasa Kelly granted Ms. Tingman legal aid and acknowledged her bail application, remanding her in custody for a future appearance.
garda Thomas Bourke detailed the arrest of Mr. Gaston, stating he also made no reply when charged with the same offences related to the remainder of the seized cannabis.His solicitor, Paddy McGarry, informed the court that his client was not seeking bail at this time. Mr.Gaston was also granted legal aid and remanded in custody.
next Steps in the Case
both Ms. Tingman and Mr. Gaston have been remanded in custody to appear again on July 11th, awaiting directions from the Director of public Prosecutions (DPP). The case will then proceed based on the DPP’s instructions, potentially leading to further charges, a trial, or other resolutions.
The examination is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the attempted importation of the significant quantity of cannabis.