Bernard Kennedy Jailed for Two Years Following Arrest at Manchester Airport

46-year-old Bernard Kennedy was arrested at Manchester Airport on March 20 this year after arriving from Bangkok via Dubai. He claimed to have 'run out of money' during his holiday in Thailand when Border Force officers stopped him.

Upon arrival, his delayed suitcases were examined, revealing 48 kilos of vacuum-wrapped cannabis packages valued at approximately £144,000.

When confronted by officers, Kennedy confirmed ownership of the empty suitcases and was subsequently charged. He pleaded guilty to the fraudulent importation of a Class B drug.

Kennedy attempted to explain his actions by suggesting that he was assisted by others who promised him a handsome payment for returning the suitcases to Manchester.

However, sentencing judge Recorder Jeremy Lasker dismissed his claims, stating, “I don’t accept he ran out of money over there and by chance somebody helped him out.” He noted Kennedy had made similar trips in the preceding months.

Kennedy's barrister, Huw Edwards, argued that his frequent travels were due to a relationship, emphasizing that he faced just one charge. He described Kennedy as “extremely remorseful for his involvement,” stating that drug mules take risks but gain little reward.

The court was informed that Kennedy had dedicated 20 years of his life working in a children's home but had struggled with his mental health following the death of his father.

Recorder Lasker sentenced Kennedy, a resident of Grizedale in Widnes, to two years in prison, noting, “You clearly had some idea of the size of this importation if nothing but by the weight of those suitcases.” He will serve half of his sentence before being released on licence.