British Man Sentenced to 10 Months in Bali for Drug Offenses After Death Penalty Charge Dropped

DENPASAR, Indonesia – A British national, Thomas Parker, has been sentenced to 10 months in prison for drug offenses in Bali, Indonesia, after prosecutors dropped a charge that could have resulted in the death penalty. The ruling was delivered on May 27, 2025, by a panel of judges at the Denpasar District Court.

Arrest and Charges

Parker, 32 years old and originally from Cumbria in northwest England, was arrested on January 21 at a villa near the popular Kuta Beach. According to court documents, he was apprehended after allegedly collecting a package containing drugs from a motorcycle taxi driver. Police observed Parker acting suspiciously during this transaction, leading them to investigate further.

Upon police approach, Parker reportedly abandoned the package and attempted to flee. Following his arrest, lab tests confirmed that the package contained just over a kilogram (2.326 pounds) of MDMA, the active ingredient in ecstasy.

Circumstances Surrounding the Package

During the investigation, Parker clarified that he did not order the package. It had been sent by a friend, identified only as Nicky, whom Parker had known for approximately two years, frequently communicating via the Telegram messaging app. Parker revealed that he had initially been hesitant to collect the package but agreed to do so after assurances from Nicky that it was safe.

Initially charged with drug trafficking — an offense that could warrant the death penalty in Indonesia — the charge was later downgraded to concealing information from authorities after investigators determined the package was not directly linked to Parker’s intentions.

Court Proceedings and Sentencing

The trial, which began last month, featured a plea from prosecutors for a one-year prison term. However, recognizing Parker’s remorse, lack of prior convictions, and commitment to reform, the judges reduced the sentence to 10 months. The time Parker has already served will be credited toward his sentence, allowing him the prospect of release in a few months.

During the sentencing, Parker sat quietly and expressed his acceptance of the judgment, stating, “I really, really regret everything that has happened. I am sorry and will follow the judge’s decision.” He also indicated that he does not plan to appeal the verdict, pending a response from prosecutors within a week.

Overview of Drug Laws in Indonesia

Indonesia is known for its stringent drug laws, with severe penalties for trafficking, including the possibility of execution by a firing squad. Current estimates by the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections indicate that approximately 530 individuals are currently on death row in Indonesia, with a significant portion of these cases involving drug-related offenses. The country’s last executions took place in July 2016. This case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding drug trafficking in Indonesia, as well as the challenges faced by foreign nationals, like Parker, within the country’s legal framework.

Parker’s case serves as a reminder of the severe consequences related to drug laws in Indonesia, particularly for tourists who may inadvertently find themselves involved in such legal situations.