Cocaine Courier Fined J$2M Under POCA

The Financial Investigations Division (FID) has successfully secured a Pecuniary Penalty Order in the Supreme Court against Fernando Roye, a St. Andrew-based mechanic, for his involvement in drug trafficking activities from which he financially benefited approximately J$2 million.

Fernando Roye was apprehended on August 15, 2019, by officers from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) Narcotics Division during an operation at Premier Plaza, St. Andrew. He was found in possession of a significant quantity of cocaine concealed in a black knapsack inside a white Mitsubishi Lancer. This led to his immediate arrest and subsequent charges, including:

  • Possession of cocaine
  • Dealing in cocaine
  • Trafficking cocaine
  • Conspiracy to traffic cocaine

 

The JCF referred the case to the FID to assess the financial benefits Mr. Roye accrued from his criminal activities. On July 24, 2024, the Honourable Mrs. Justice C. Tie Powell issued a Pecuniary Penalty Order under Section 5(3)(b) of the Proceeds of Crime Act, 2007, requiring Mr. Roye to pay J$2 million as a penalty. The payment schedule includes an initial payment of J$250,000 in July 2024, another J$250,000 by August 30, 2024, and monthly installments of J$41,666 until the full amount is settled.

This conviction and penalty demonstrate FID’s unwavering commitment to working with law enforcement partners like the JCF to combat crime. We are dedicated to ensuring that those who engage in illegal activities face the full consequences of their actions, including forfeiting any ill-gotten gains.

The FID urges the public to report any suspicious or criminal activities to us or our local law enforcement partners.