Sonny Miller’s drug-related trial resumes as USCG presents video footage of Colombian boat

Former Police Staff Association chairman Sonny Miller, 46, is currently facing eight drug-related charges in a trial that has experienced several delays. Recently, a CD containing US Coast Guard helicopter footage of a drug bust in Acklins, where 181lb of cocaine was confiscated, was entered into evidence. The video was provided to US DEA supervisory special agent Ronald Haynes by a Coast Guard officer, who then passed it on to local law enforcement.

In addition to Miller, two Colombian men, Christhian Garcia Aristizabal, 35, and Christhian Gaviria Aragon, 33, were also charged in connection to the drug bust. While all three defendants face charges related to possession and conspiracy to possess and import dangerous drugs with intent to supply, only the Colombians face importation charges. Miller specifically faces two counts of abetment to importation of dangerous drugs, as it is alleged that he conspired to possess and import 181 lbs of cocaine and 31 lbs of Indian Hemp into The Bahamas.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Roberto Goodman testified that he received the CDs containing the US Coast Guard helicopter footage on June 10, 2022. While US DEA supervisory special agent Haynes did not directly participate in the operation that led to the drug bust in Acklins, he provided the CDs to local law enforcement for use in the trial. Prosecutor Shaneka Carey, along with Terry Archer, are representing the Crown in the case against Miller, Aristizabal, and Aragon.

The trial against Miller and the two Colombian men has been ongoing, with numerous delays in the proceedings. The evidence presented at the trial, including the US Coast Guard helicopter footage, is crucial in proving the charges against the defendants. The video reportedly shows the drug bust in Acklins from an aerial perspective, providing valuable visual evidence for the prosecution. Miller, a former assistant superintendent, is represented by attorney Bjorn Ferguson, who will have to navigate the evidence against his client in court.

The charges faced by Miller, Aristizabal, and Aragon are serious and carry significant legal consequences. The alleged conspiracy to import a large quantity of cocaine and Indian Hemp into The Bahamas is a major drug trafficking offense that could result in lengthy prison sentences if the defendants are found guilty. The outcome of the trial will depend on the strength of the evidence presented by the prosecution, including the US Coast Guard helicopter footage, and the ability of the defense attorneys to challenge that evidence and defend their clients. The legal proceedings in this case are likely to continue for some time as both sides present their arguments and evidence in court.