By FARRAH JOHNSON

Tribune Staff Reporter

fjohnson@tribunemedia.net

A man who officers seized nearly ten ounces of cocaine from on Tuesday was fined $5,000 in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday.

Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes imposed the fine on Eariel Turnquest, 45, after he pleaded guilty to one count of dangerous drug possession with the intent to supply.

The prosecution said Turnquest planned to sell the 9.5 ounces of cocaine to make a $2,660 profit.

The court heard officers went to Turnquest’s apartment around 1.56pm on the day of his arrest, armed with a search warrant. Upon their arrival, they informed the defendant that they would be conducting a search in reference to dangerous drugs and firearms. During their investigation, police found two clear bags containing hard rock substances suspected to be cocaine in the oven of Turnquest’s stove. He was subsequently arrested and transported to the Drug Enforcement Unit. In an interview with officers there, he admitted to the offense.

During his arraignment, Turnquest pleaded guilty. If he fails to pay the fine he will spend one year at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.