American dancer Elijah Flores was caught smuggling over 30 kilos of cannabis at Manchester Airport. Known for his performance on America's Got Talent, Flores arrived from Thailand and was stopped by border officials at Terminal Two.

Upon questioning, Flores denied having anything to declare. However, officers at Manchester Crown Court revealed that his luggage contained 37.2 kilograms of cannabis, valued at nearly £1 million on the street.

Flores, from California, confessed that due to a health scare related to 'penile cancer', he resorted to smuggling drugs to cover medical expenses.

Prosecutor Phil Hall stated that on November 21, last year, around 9:55 PM, Flores approached a border officer, leading to the discovery during baggage search. The dancer traveled from Thailand, claiming he was only there for three days.

Flores admitted receiving instructions via a WhatsApp group and expected to hand over the drugs upon his arrival in the UK. Despite knowing he was committing a crime, he said his actions were driven by financial desperation.

Defense lawyer Hugh Barton emphasized that Flores's involvement was uncharacteristic, as he was taken advantage of due to his vulnerable state. In prison, Flores has been working as a cleaner and cook, and is eager to return to his career and family in the US.

Recorder Katie Jones sentenced Flores to 18 months in jail, of which he will serve half before facing possible deportation.