Nineteen-year-old Bella Culley, a young mother from Billingham, England, is finally free after a harrowing ordeal in a Georgian prison. Facing a potential twenty-year sentence, a last-minute shift in the prosecution’s approach secured her release.
Culley’s nightmare began with accusations of drug smuggling, but she vehemently claimed she was coerced into a confession through brutal torture. She alleges she endured burns from a hot iron and was forced to witness a horrific beheading video at the hands of a Thai gang, leaving lasting physical and emotional scars.
Just weeks ago, she pleaded guilty, a desperate act accompanied by a heartbreaking question to the judge: would she be allowed to keep her baby with her in prison? The weight of her situation, and the separation from her child, was palpable.
Today, prosecutor Vakhtang Tsalughelashvili announced Culley’s freedom. While initially considering a two-year sentence, the prosecution ultimately decided to credit the time she had already served in custody.
The court sentenced her to five months and twenty-five days – precisely the duration of her imprisonment. Tears flowed freely as the verdict was read, relief washing over Culley and her mother, Lyanne Kennedy.
Her family had already made a significant financial sacrifice, paying over £137,000 as part of a plea bargain, desperately hoping to reduce her sentence and bring her home. Their efforts, combined with the prosecution’s change of heart, proved successful.
Upon her arrival in Georgia, Culley reportedly exhibited visible signs of the torture she endured. Her lawyer, Malkhaz Salakaia, confirmed she will now receive her passport and is free to return to the United Kingdom.
Lyanne Kennedy, who had feared she might only see her daughter again after the birth of her grandson, described the outcome as “totally unexpected.” She even suggested naming the child after their lawyer, a testament to his dedication.
The family is now focused on bringing Bella and her baby home, a return to normalcy they have long yearned for. While the full extent of her ordeal remains untold, Kennedy stated that Bella’s story “will come in time,” emphasizing their current priority: supporting their daughter and grandson.
The road to recovery will undoubtedly be long, but for Bella Culley, a new chapter begins – one filled with the promise of healing and the joy of being reunited with her family.
