Briana Smikle awaits sentencing in Moca fraud case

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Briana Smikle is to be sentenced after admitting to several offences in a matter pursued by the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency.

Smikle entered guilty pleas on Tuesday in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court to multiple counts of receiving stolen property and dealing in transactions connected to stolen property. Attorneys for Moca told the court that, on several occasions, she accepted funds that she knew, or should have known, represented criminal property.

The case includes an allegation that, in June 2022, $1.3 million was sent to accounts held in Smikle’s name through two separate transfers. Prosecutors also pointed to transactions in 2023, including separate sums of $400,000 and $500,000.

She was further accused of withdrawing money inside bank branches and distributing the cash, as well as sending funds electronically to third parties.

After pleading guilty to all charges, Smikle had her bail continued. Her reporting requirement was eased from daily visits to three times per week.

Smikle appeared before the court among a wider set of at least 14 individuals whom Moca attorneys say are before the courts on fraud-related charges. She has signalled that she is prepared to make restitution and is scheduled to return for sentencing on October 26.