Teenager Bella Culley has given birth to a baby boy just weeks after being released from a Georgian prison where she faced serious drug trafficking charges. The 19-year-old shared photos on TikTok of her cradling her newborn, announcing, “My little 5lbs baba.”
Bella’s journey began on May 10, 2023, when she was arrested while attempting to import a significant stash of cannabis, valued at approximately £200,000, from Thailand to Georgia. After pleading guilty, she faced a possible sentence of up to 20 years in prison. However, her situation changed dramatically when her family raised £140,000 towards a £215,000 fine demanded by Georgian authorities.
Legal Battle and Plea Bargain
Bella’s legal troubles arose from a backpacking trip during which she became pregnant following a brief relationship with a British man. She claimed that she was unaware of the cannabis hidden in her luggage and alleged mistreatment by a local drug gang, including threats of violence.
In the courtroom, Bella expressed her relief upon hearing the verdict from Judge Giorgi Gelashvili, who granted her release shortly after her lawyer, Malkhaz Salakaia, argued for bail based on her advanced pregnancy. Salakaia emphasized her cooperation with authorities and the plea agreement reached.
“We would like to ask the judge to schedule one final hearing to pass the final verdict,” he stated, highlighting the urgency of her situation. Following the judge’s announcement, Bella was seen laughing and crying, overwhelmed by the news of her freedom.
Family Reactions and Future Plans
The emotional moment was shared with her family, including her mother, Lyanne Kennedy, who could not contain her tears of joy. “I am so happy, so happy – I know I don’t look like it, but so happy,” she told reporters outside the Tbilisi courthouse.
Bella was released from custody just minutes after the hearing concluded, wearing a long coat, t-shirt, and leggings. She immediately contacted her father, Niel Culley, who responded with enthusiasm, “That’s brilliant!” Bella expressed her disbelief at being free and shared her feelings of happiness and relief with reporters.
With plans to leave Georgia soon, Bella’s family is focused on securing her passport. The British Embassy also played a role in her case, sending a letter to Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili urging consideration for a pardon. The letter was forwarded to the Pardon Commission for further review.
Bella Culley’s story is a poignant reminder of the complexities surrounding drug trafficking laws and the personal struggles individuals face in foreign legal systems. As she embarks on a new chapter of motherhood, her experience serves as both a cautionary tale and a testament to resilience.
