A pregnant British woman is facing what her family describes as a "living nightmare" after being detained in a Georgian prison for over two months on drug-related charges.
Bella Culley, who was travelling through Georgia, was arrested in March after authorities allegedly found 18 grams of cannabis in her luggage. The 32-year-old now remains in custody in Tbilisi while awaiting trial, with her family raising serious concerns about her health and treatment.
Desperate Pleas From a Georgian Cell
In emotional communications with her family, Ms Culley has described deteriorating conditions within the prison system. "She's been moved to a different prison which is even worse," her mother revealed. "There are cockroaches everywhere, the food is making her sick, and she's lost a significant amount of weight."
The situation has become increasingly urgent as Ms Culley is approximately four months pregnant. Her family fears the prison conditions could pose serious risks to both her health and that of her unborn child.
Family's Fight for Justice
Ms Culley's mother has been tirelessly campaigning for her daughter's release, expressing frustration with both Georgian authorities and the response from the British government. "We're absolutely desperate," she stated. "The Foreign Office doesn't seem to be taking this seriously enough."
The family insists that Bella had no knowledge of the drugs found in her luggage and believe she may have been targeted or set up. They're now working with legal representatives in Georgia while simultaneously pressuring UK officials to intervene more forcefully.
Foreign Office Response
When contacted about the case, a Foreign Office spokesperson confirmed they were "supporting a British woman arrested in Georgia" and were "in contact with her family and local authorities." However, the family feels this support has been insufficient given the grave circumstances.
This case highlights the severe consequences British citizens can face under foreign justice systems, particularly regarding drug offences in countries with strict enforcement policies.
Growing Health Concerns
Medical professionals have expressed alarm about the potential impact of prison conditions on both Ms Culley and her pregnancy. Stress, poor nutrition, and inadequate medical care in detention facilities can create significant pregnancy complications.
Her family reports that while she has seen a doctor, the medical attention has been inconsistent and fails to address their core concerns about the pregnancy's wellbeing.
As legal proceedings continue to move slowly through the Georgian court system, Ms Culley's family remains in a state of anxious limbo, hoping for a breakthrough that could bring their loved one home before the situation deteriorates further.
