Man Facing Jail In Dubai For Consuming Marijuana Before Entering The Country Begs For Help

A man who was detained in Dubai when traces of marijuana were found in his system after consuming it legally at home has begged for help.

Peter Clark, 51, from Las Vegas, has been held in Dubai for almost two months after a routine test in hospital found trace elements of hashish - they can be present in the body for up to two months after consumption.

Radha Stirling, from civil and criminal justice organisation Detained in Dubai, is representing Mr Clark. She says he is 'struggling' and has called on the US government to take action.

Stirling said: "Peter was called by the police several times and asked to attend in person but seemingly, it was only to arrange a Covid test for him. It has been a rollercoaster ride for Peter who has been told false information from the beginning."

She added: "Peter Clark, has been held in Dubai for almost two months. He's struggling. Being detained in a foreign country that you had only planned to stay for a few days, is daunting and it's costly. Peter was there to look at investment opportunities.

"He doesn't know anyone there and is stuck on his own in a hotel room while awaiting his fate.

Detained in Dubai

"This is an extremely traumatic experience for anyone. They have no idea what is going to happen to them, if they are going back to jail, if their life is ruined.

"It's even worse for those who have committed no crime, like Peter... These are not experiences that people can get over quickly."

He flew to Dubai on 24 February, where he was due to spend a few days looking at professional recording studios.

However, he suddenly fell ill with pancreatitis and was admitted for emergency treatment at hospital, where medics took a urine sample to test for drugs.

Finding residue traces of marijuana, hospital staff reported Clark to the police, with officers arriving soon after to charge him.

Detained in Dubai

Mr Clarke explained: "I haven't done anything wrong. Who would ever think you could get arrested for marijuana residue found in a drug test, from long before you ever travelled? This means anyone who has consumed hashish in the past couple of months could be arrested.

"How does that make sense? This whole situation has been really tough. I was only supposed to be here a few days. I have no idea what is going to happen, whether I'll end up in prison a year... or whether I'll be deported.

"The longer I stay here, the more nightmare stories I see. It's very concerning.

"The Embassy has been of no assistance and members of congress and senators have not yet responded to my pleas for help.

"I am not stunned, but I am disappointed that my country allows this."

Topics: World News, Dubai

Amelia Ward

Amelia is a journalist at LADbible. After studying journalism at Liverpool John Moores and Salford Uni (don't ask), she went into PR and then the world of music. She spent a few years working on festivals and events before joining LADbible. In her spare time, Amelia likes music and spending good, quality time with her cat, Paul. You can contact Amelia at [email protected].

@ameliasward