British man charged for attempting to smuggle large sum of cash into Jamaica

 

A British national who allegedly attempted to smuggle more than US$130,000 earlier this month, has been charged. 

 

Trevor White, a 42-year-old musician and businessman, is charged with possession of criminal property, cross-border movement of funds and attempted bribery following his arrival at Sangster International Airport on May 1. 

 

Mr. White, who resides in White House, Westmoreland while in Jamaica and claims permanent residency in Enfield, London, was detained after arriving on a Virgin Atlantic flight. 

 

The Financial Investigations Division reports that Mr. White entered the Nothing to Declare Customs channel. But during a routine inspection, his luggage was scanned and abnormalities detected.

 

Three suspicious bottles labelled 'Head and Shoulders' and a dandruff shampoo and conditioner were discovered. 

 

An examination of the bottles revealed US currency concealed in plastic wrap.

 

Further inspection of the plastic wrapped packages yielded a total US$130,490. 

 

Mr. White allegedly attempted to bribe Jamaica Customs Agency officers, encouraging them to take two of the packages and allow him to leave with the remainder of the money. 

 

He claimed the funds were legitimate earnings from musical performances and were intended to support business activities in Jamaica. But he was unable to provide evidence of the lawful source of the funds. 

 

This prompted immediate seizure of the cash and referral of the case to the FID for investigation. 

 

FID's Principal Director of Financial Crimes Investigations, Keith Darien, said the concealment of cash in shampoo bottles, coupled with an attempted bribe, underscores the sophisticated tactics that people use to bypass established financial systems. 

 

"Our investigators remain vigilant and resolute in disrupting illicit financial flows that threatens Jamaica's financial system and international reputation," he declared, adding that the case highlights the importance of collaboration and the strategic partnership between the FID and its local law enforcement counterparts such as the Jamaica Customs Agency and the Jamaica Constabulary Force. 

 

He said the FID will also continue to work closely with international partners to stem the flow of illicit funds and ensure accountability under the law.