25.10.2024
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Greenock Morton
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas Denies Drug Importation Charge After £600,000 Cannabis Seizure
Former Arsenal academy player Jay Emmanuel-Thomas has pleaded not guilty to charges related to the alleged smuggling of £600,000 worth of cannabis through Stansted Airport. The incident involved roughly 60kg of cannabis, reportedly found in two suitcases that had arrived from Bangkok in September.
Background on Jay Emmanuel-Thomas
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, 33, began his football career with Arsenal’s youth academy, later joining several clubs across the UK and abroad. His career highlights include:
- - Playing for clubs like Ipswich Town, Bristol City, QPR, Livingston, Aberdeen, and PTT Rayong in Thailand.
- - Most recently signed with Greenock Morton, though he was dismissed following his arrest.
Court Appearance and Charges
Emmanuel-Thomas appeared in court via video from HMP Durham and, along with co-defendants Rosie Rowland and Yasmin Piotrowska, entered a not-guilty plea. He is charged with attempting to import Class B drugs between July 1 and September 2, alongside Rowland and Piotrowska.
Key Details of the Case
- - Seizure: Approximately 60kg of cannabis was seized by Border Force officers at Stansted Airport.
- - Location and Arrest: Emmanuel-Thomas was apprehended in Gourock, Inverclyde, by the National Crime Agency (NCA).
- - Court Proceedings: A trial date is expected to be set for May, with a case management hearing scheduled for January 6.
Looking Ahead
Judge Christopher Morgan has ordered Emmanuel-Thomas to remain in custody, while Rowland and Piotrowska have been granted bail until their next hearing. The trial, expected to last five to seven days, will likely provide further details on the case and Emmanuel-Thomas’ defense.
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