Lowmans Leeward ganga wine maker hit with $2,300 fine by Chief Magistrate

Honesty and a recommendation to the Chief Magistrate to try “ganja wine” were not enough to save a Lowmans Leeward resident from a $2,300 fine for cultivating and having marijuana in his possession.

On Tuesday at the Serious Offences Court, Samuel James, 46, pleaded guilty to cultivation of 25 genius cannabis plants at Carib Mountain and having 1,008 grams of cannabis with intent to supply to another on June 5, 2017 at Lowmans Leeward.

The court heard that when officers found James in the mountain around 12:30 p.m., he confessed to having more cannabis and led the officers to his home, where he handed over a nylon sack.

The self-proclaimed singer and songwriter said he cultivates different vegetables and also plants cannabis to make “ganja wine,” so he could make extra money to further his music career.

“But, unfortunately, I was caught and I should take responsibility for my actions,” he added.

James, who told the court that he spent 31 years in Barbados, said he intended on creating a market here for the wine, as he is not a fan of liquor. He explained that he does not consume alcohol, because it causes persons to do “frantic” things.

James, however, is not the first person to appear in court claiming to cultivate cannabis for the purpose of wine making. When Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Matthias brought this to James’ attention, he recommended that she try it, an invitation she declined.

Browne-Matthias, however, told James that he had in his possession a sizeable amount of drugs, which she could not discount, although his honesty and previously clean record goes to his credit.

“Your honesty led [the police officers] to 1,008 grams of cannabis,” she commented.

In relation to the 25 cannabis plants, James was fined $800. He was also fined $1,500 for the 1,008 grams, which is to be paid by August 31, 2017. In default, he will spend nine months in prison.

A destruction order was made on the drug. (AS)