The legal proceedings against Bella Culley, a 19-year-old British woman who is six months pregnant, have been postponed to facilitate further discussions on a potential plea deal. Culley, from Billingham, Teesside, faces severe charges of drug smuggling in Georgia, which could result in a prison sentence of up to 15 years or life imprisonment if convicted. Her case was heard at Tbilisi City Court, where her defense attorney, Malkhaz Salakaia, indicated plans to seek a presidential pardon once the plea agreement is finalized. Judge Giorgi Gulashvili noted that both the prosecution and defense teams require additional time to determine the financial terms necessary for Culley’s release. Her family has reportedly raised a significant sum to reduce her potential jail time. The hearing was attended by Culley’s mother and grandmother, who have been actively involved in her defense. The case has been adjourned until October 28. Culley was initially reported missing in Thailand before being arrested at Tbilisi International Airport on May 10. Georgian authorities confiscated narcotics from her travel bag, including 12kg of marijuana and 2kg of hashish. During a July hearing, Culley pleaded not guilty, claiming she was coerced into the act under duress. She emphasized her innocence, stating, ‘I just wanted to travel. I am a good person. I am a student at university. I am a clean person. I don’t do drugs.’ The case has drawn significant attention, with updates available on BBC Tees’ social media platforms.