Missing Teenager Found in Georgia, Facing Life in Prison for Drug Trafficking

Teesside Teenager Missing in Thailand Found in Georgia, Facing Drug Trafficking Charges A Teesside teenager, Bella May Culley, 18, who was reported missing in Thailand, has unexpectedly appeared in a Georgian court facing serious drug trafficking charges. The news shocked her family, who had launched a desperate Facebook appeal after losing contact with her since Saturday, May 13th. The appeal described their worry and stated that Bella was last seen in the Pattaya area of Thailand. Images from the Georgian Interior Ministry show Culley being escorted into a police station in handcuffs. She was apprehended at Tbilisi airport, where authorities seized approximately 14 kilograms of marijuana and cannabis concentrates. Prosecutors allege that Culley illegally purchased, stored, and imported the drugs. Culley's defense lawyer stated, "My client is currently exercising the right to remain silent. She will give police more information later." If convicted, Culley could face a life sentence in prison. The international appeal for information, sparked by her disappearance, is now over, but the Georgian police investigation is only just beginning. The case highlights the complexities of international crime and the emotional toll on families involved in such situations.