Former football star charged in CAD 980,000 drug smuggling case
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, a former Arsenal player, was released by Greenock Morton FC after being accused of drug smuggling. He was charged with the illegal importation of a Class B drug – cannabis.
The 33-year-old forward was arrested at the beginning of the week by officers from the National Crime Agency. A search of luggage at a UK airport revealed cannabis worth approximately CAD 980,000.
"The charge sheet states he is accused of 'being concerned in the fraudulent evasion of a prohibition on the importation of a class B drug — cannabis — on 2nd September, 2024, at London'", reports "The Sun".
During the operation, Jay Emmanuel-Thomas was detained in Gourock in cooperation with Scottish police and transported to Carlisle for questioning. He was charged with the illegal importation of a Class B drug – cannabis.
According to court records, the crime occurred on September 2 in London. In a 15-minute hearing, he confirmed his name, date of birth, and address.
Emmanuel-Thomas' lawyer, Nathaniel Gadsby, did not make any statements on his behalf. A few hours later, Greenock Morton released a statement that the club is aware of the situation involving one of their players and is awaiting further information from the relevant authorities.
The following day, the club announced the termination of Jay Emmanuel-Thomas's contract, adding that they would not comment further on the matter.
He was caught with drugs. he began his career at Arsenal
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas started his football career at Arsenal, playing five times for the first team. After several loans, he permanently moved to Ipswich Town in 2011, later playing for Bristol City and QPR.
After a short stint in Thailand, he joined Livingston for the 2020/21 season and became a fan favourite. He then moved to Aberdeen but failed to score a single league goal. After playing in India and with Kidderminster Harriers, he joined Morton this summer on a six-month contract, which has now been terminated.
