According to a recent report, Bella Culley, a 19-year-old woman, has been moved to a “mother and baby” unit in a Georgian prison. She is currently 35 weeks pregnant. This transfer marks a considerable improvement in her living conditions after five months spent in Rustavi Prison Number Five.
Improved Living Conditions in Georgian Prison
Bella’s previous conditions were quite harsh. She had limited amenities, including:
- A hole in the ground as a toilet
- Only one hour of fresh air daily
- Communal showers available twice a week
However, her mother, Lyanne Kennedy, reported significant changes following her transfer earlier this month. Bella now enjoys:
- Access to a communal kitchen
- A shower in her room
- A proper toilet
- Two hours of outdoor time for walking
Cooking Skills in the Mother and Baby Unit
In the new unit, Bella is allowed to cook for herself and other inmates, which has empowered her to explore culinary skills. After being accustomed to boiling pasta in a kettle and toasting bread over a candle, she can now prepare meals in a proper kitchen. Some of the dishes she has been making include:
- Eggy bread
- Cheese toasties
- Salt and pepper chicken
Legal Troubles in Georgia
Bella Culley has been in pre-trial detention since May. Her legal issues began when authorities found 12 kilograms (26 pounds) of marijuana and 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) of hashish in her luggage at Tbilisi International Airport.
As she navigates her challenging circumstances, Bella’s adaptation to her new environment appears to be a positive step forward. With a more supportive setting, she is focusing on her pregnancy and learning Georgian, ensuring she copes better during this difficult time.
