Underwear cocaine smuggler jailed for over seven years

Wednesday 06 November 2024

A 53-year-old man has been jailed for seven years and six months for attempting to import almost 200 grams of high purity cocaine into the island in his underwear.

Terry David Renyard, who has lived in Alicante for the past seven years, was stopped by Customs officers at Jersey Airport on 5 July after arriving from the Spanish city.

Renyard – who is currently unemployed but did work occasionally as a taxi driver – told offices that he was visiting the island to see a friend called "James" but was unable to provide any further details.

He was unsure of his full name and where and when he would be meeting him.

Pictured: Terry David Renyard was stopped by Customs officers at Jersey Airport on 5 July.

Renyard was subsequently searched by officers and was found to have concealed a package containing 192.40 grams of cocaine within his underwear.

During questioning, Renyard admitted he had purchased cocaine in Alicante intending to sell it in Jersey, where it would have an estimated street value of between £29,000 and £48,000.

Crown Advocate Adam Harrison, prosecuting, argued that Renyard had planned and carried the importation attempt himself in order to make a profit.

He added that the defendant has ten convictions for sixteen previous offences – including one historic offence for possession of a controlled drug in 1988, and a 2018 conviction in Spain for being concerned in the supply of a controlled drug for which he served three years in prison.

Advocate Mark Boothman, defending, said that Renyard had pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity which qualified him for a one-third reduction in sentence.

The advocate also argued that Renyard had been cooperative during the investigation, demonstrated remorse, and had been productive during his time in prison by attending the gym, art classes, and working as a cleaner.

In a letter read to the court by Advocate Boothman, Renyard expressed regret and took full accountability for his actions.

The letter read: "I fully accept my crime and its consequences. I offer my support to the court and to the people of Jersey.

"I am 53 years of age, and I should have known better. My choice was devastating. I take full responsibility for my actions and intend to repay my debt to Jersey."

Renyard also thanked the authorities for handling his case respectfully in the letter.

Pictured: Renyard was found to have concealed a package containing 192.40 grams of cocaine within his underwear.

Despite these expressions of remorse, Commissioner Alan Binnington spoke about the severity of Renyard's crime, calling it a "commercial venture planned to make a profit".

He pointed to Renyard's admission that he intended to sell the drugs to cover his debts and noted the defendant's long history of criminal behaviour.

"This drug has the potential to ruin lives and has a damaging effect on society," said Commissioner Binnington.

However, the Commissioner acknowledged Renyard's candid approach and willingness to admit his actions, and gave him credit for the remorse he had shown.

The case was heard by the Superior Number of the Royal Court, which only sits for the most serious of cases.

Jurats Le Cornu, Cornish, Le Heuze, Entwistle and Berry were sitting.

In a statement following the sentencing, Paul Le Monnier, Senior Manager at the Jersey Customs and Immigration Service, said: "Officers continue to work vigilantly at the island's borders identifying those that they suspect are importing controlled drugs.

He added that the case demonstrated the Customs Service's "pro-active stance in tackling drug trafficking".

Anyone with information on drug smuggling can report it anonymously via 0800 735 5555.