An international drugs operation has netted narcotics worth $500,000 and led to the arrest of three Bermudians.

Yesterday, Judy Louise Spence, Comal Shavon Spence and Jamal Reuben Pearman, The Royal Gazette 's press room manager, appeared at a special session at Magistrates' Court.

They were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to import cocaine following a Bermuda Police Service Narcotics department operation, between February 2 and a date unknown.

Judy Spence, 44, of Boundary Terrace, Devonshire, Comal Spence, 23, of High Point Road, Devonshire and Pearman, 30, of Town Hill Road, Smith's, were all granted $25,000 bail with a like surety.

All three are charged with conspiring with the remaining two and unknown others to import cocaine into Bermuda.

In addition, Judy Spence and Comal Spence face allegations of handling cocaine intended for supply and possession of cocaine intended for supply.

Judy Spence is also charged with possession of cannabis and crack cocaine.

Pearman also faces charges of the misuse of cocaine, possession of cannabis and possession of a cooking pot and ashtray, equipment intended for the misuse of a controlled drug.

Brian Calhoun appeared for the Crown. Kim Wilson represented Judy Spence, Mark Pettingill for Jamal Pearman and Richard Hector appeared for Comal Spence.

All three are due to appear in court for mention on March 5.

DRUG CHARGES -- Royal Gazette press room manager Jamal Reuben Pearman pictured outside Magistrates' Court yesterday, before his appearance with Judy Spence and Comal Spence in connection with allegations of conspiracy to import cocaine.

DRUGS DGS