The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

A WESTERN Air pilot charged with drug possession was freed on $10,000 bail last week under strict conditions that bar him from leaving The Bahamas or flying internationally while awaiting trial.

Marlin Miller, 34, of Coral Reef Estates, Freeport, is permitted to operate an aircraft only within The Bahamas for employment purposes. He pleaded not guilty in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court to possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply and resisting arrest.

Miller appeared before Magistrate Uel Johnson on Thursday, represented by attorney Paul Wallace-Whitfield. Prosecutors allege that officers found two pounds of hydroponic marijuana, with an estimated street value of $4,000, inside a bag in his vehicle.

During the bail hearing, Prosecutor Corporal 3700 Kenton Smith urged the court to impose strict conditions if Miller was released, requesting bail with two sureties and the surrender of all travel documents, including his Bahamian passport. Corporal Smith also sought an order suspending Miller from operating an aircraft pending trial.

Mr Wallace-Whitfield opposed a flight ban, arguing that such a restriction would undermine his client’s livelihood.

Magistrate Johnson granted bail in the sum of $10,000 with two sureties and ordered Miller to surrender his Bahamian passport, which contains a US visa. The court further ruled that Miller is prohibited from travelling outside The Bahamas and may fly only domestically for work. He was also ordered to report to the Northeastern Police Station every Monday, Wednesday and Friday before 6pm.

The case was adjourned to March 25, 2026.

Miller is the second Western Air employee to face the courts this week on a drug-related charge. On Tuesday, Western Air mechanic Carlton Pratt appeared before Magistrate LaQuay Laing charged with possession of dangerous drugs.

Pratt pleaded guilty to possession of 2.5 grams of marijuana and was granted a conditional discharge. He was ordered to keep the peace for six months and to pay $500 to the court for the benefit of the Red Cross. If he breaches the conditions, he will be convicted and fined $750 or jailed for six months. The matter was adjourned to June 6 for review.