I happened across this on the State Dept travel warning site and thought I’d post it. Sobering heads-up to the state of law and order across the globe, and probably a surprise to many Americans who expect to be read their rights upon arrest, see a lawyer upon request, and hire a hot-shot defense attorney if the going gets tough.

Drug Arrests

Despite repeated warnings, drug arrests and convictions of American citizens are still a problem. If you are caught with any type of narcotics overseas, you are subject to local””?not U.S.””?laws. Penalties for possession or trafficking are often the same. If you are arrested, you will find the following:

• Few countries provide a jury trial.
• Most countries do not accept bail.
• Pre-trial detention, often in solitary confinement, may last many months.
• Prisons may lack even minimal comforts””?bed, toilet, and washbasin.
• Diets are often inadequate and require supplements from relatives and friends.
• Officials may not speak English.
• Physical abuse, confiscation of personal property, degrading or inhumane treatment, and extortion are possible.

If you are convicted, you may face sentences ranging from fines and jail time to years of hard labor and perhaps even death. Learn what the local laws are and obey them.

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