Former British army sergeant Matthew Desmond, a decorated veteran of conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, is set to be released from a Georgian prison this week after agreeing to pay a $28,000 fine. Desmond, 49, will plead guilty to importing narcotics despite possessing documentation proving the substances were legally prescribed for a spinal injury sustained during a jump in Afghanistan.
Desmond was arrested in April after declaring the medication upon crossing into Georgia from Turkey on his motorcycle. His legal team stated that local paperwork for the medication was not obtained, leading to his arrest and charges. He has reportedly been experiencing significant pain due to limited access to painkillers in detention, with prison medics providing medication only every other day.
His lawyer, Jaba Kochlamazashvili, informed Tbilisi City Court that a plea bargain had been reached. "Matthew's release is all but imminent, the only problem is collecting the sum took a bit longer," Kochlamazashvili said. "We expected it to arrive by today, but transfers and paperwork took too long. We expect him to walk free come Wednesday, after which he'll depart Georgia."
The substances found in Desmond's possession included buprenorphine, codeine, and pregabalin, which are classified as psychotropic substances. His lawyers secured paperwork in May to confirm the drugs were for private medical use.
Desmond served in the 2nd Battalion Parachute Regiment from 1995 until his retirement in 2018. He had previously traversed 25 countries on his motorcycle before his journey through Georgia. His military service included notable actions in Afghanistan, where he was recognized for bravery in rescuing a fallen comrade under fire and neutralizing a Taliban fighter. He was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. His former unit's 2008 tour in Helmand province was documented in the book "Desperate Glory."
Desmond is currently held at Gldani Prison, which has a history of reported mistreatment. However, recent assessments indicate improvements in prison conditions, with overcrowding and allegations of mistreatment no longer being primary concerns.