Customs officer jailed on cocaine charge

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HAMILTON, Bermuda – A 41-year-old Customs officer has been jailed for 10 years after admitting possessing US$31 000 worth of cocaine.

Roberto Marques was arrested outside a Pembroke grocery store last November with 30 bags of cocaine hidden in a sunglasses case. A search of his home revealed another 118 grams of the drug, along with drug equipment.

At Tuesday’s sentencing hearing, Puisne Judge Carlisle Greaves said Marques’ role as a Customs officer was a “substantial aggravating factor”.

A second man, 34-year-old Ryan Willingham-Walker, was jailed for 18 months for possessing cannabis with intent to supply.

Both men were arrested at the same time.

Both defendants pleaded guilty last week to possession of drug equipment and money laundering.

Marques also pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply and Willingham-Walker admitted possession of cannabis with intent to supply. (CMC)