Judge’s absence stalls cocaine trial
ST JAMES, Jamaica – The absence of the presiding parish judge in the Makeisha McKoy cocaine case has resulted in the case being adjourned until May 16.
The case was scheduled for continuation in the St James Parish Court on Monday, but when it was called up before Parish Judge Sasha-Marie Smith-Ashley, the court was informed the trial judge Kaysha Grant-Pryce could not be present.
As a result, a new date was set and McKoy’s bail was extended.
According to court documents, on May 12, 2021, about 1:50 pm, a package containing assorted food items was shipped by the accused and later intercepted at the FedEx Fairview office.
When the shipment was opened, four packages marked “Yogurt Nut Mix” were reportedly discovered. Further inspection revealed that the packages contained cocaine in what appeared to be raisins.
McKoy admitted to sending a package on behalf of an adopted brother, but could not give an exact address of where he lived.
When cautioned, she reportedly said, “I didn’t know cocaine was in it.”
She was subsequently arrested and charged with conspiracy to export, possession of, dealing in and taking steps preparatory to export cocaine.