GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands — Two Jamaican nationals have received prison sentences after admitting to trafficking a substantial quantity of marijuana through Cayman Islands waters. The sentencing concludes a maritime drug interception case that highlights the vulnerabilities exploited in regional narcotics operations.
Eric Junior Cunningham, 42, received a 24-month imprisonment term, while his accomplice Radmond Junior Samuels, 33, was sentenced to 18 months. The verdict was delivered by Justice Emma Peters in the Cayman Islands Grand Court following guilty pleas from both defendants.
The case originated on March 25 when Cayman Islands Coast Guard personnel intercepted a vessel approximately 32 nautical miles south of Grand Cayman. Cunningham was identified as the boat operator with Samuels aboard as passenger. During the inspection, authorities discovered nine packaged bundles of ganja totaling over 167 pounds, alongside a GPS navigation system and satellite communication device.
Initially entering not guilty pleas in May, both defendants changed their positions three weeks prior to their scheduled September trial date. During proceedings, Cunningham acknowledged his participation in the smuggling operation after being promised a $5,000 payment that ultimately remained undelivered.
Social inquiry reports presented to the court revealed both men faced considerable personal challenges. Cunningham, a farmer by trade, had endured significant property damage during previous storm events, including complete home destruction during Hurricane Melissa. Samuels reported being coerced into the operation through threats from an individual known as ‘Bigs,’ compounded by early parental loss, limited education, and ongoing health concerns.
Justice Peters recognized that neither defendant held a leadership position within the drug operation, but emphasized that maritime transport remains a critical component of regional narcotics supply chains. The court categorized Cunningham’s role as ‘significant’ due to his operational control of the vessel, while Samuels received ‘lesser’ role designation considering his limited involvement and confirmed intimidation.
In her sentencing remarks, Justice Peters highlighted the structural inequalities within drug trafficking networks: ‘Those who command illegal organizations strategically minimize their exposure while compelling others to assume operational risks. Although intermediate participants may receive some compensation, the substantial profits flow upward while consequences flow downward.’
The sentences represent the minimum permissible under deterrence requirements, with both defendants receiving a 20% reduction for their guilty pleas. Accounting for time already served in remand and potential early release for good behavior after serving 60% of their terms, both men are anticipated to return to Jamaica in early 2025. The court additionally ordered confiscation and destruction of all seized narcotics.