Cassie Sainsbury sparks controversy after asking for legal defense money

Cassie Sainsbury asks for taxpayer money to defend charges of Colombian drug smuggling

Accused drug mule, Cassie Sainsbury, has pleaded for help to pay for her legal defence.

The 22-year-old has launched an urgent bid for assistance from the Australian Government for a “good defence” to fight her way out of a Colombian jail.

But her uncle, Neil Sainsbury, says Aussie taxpayers shouldn’t have to foot the bill.

Neil Sainsbury, Cassie's uncle, says she should wear the consequences.

Channel 7

“I’m a taxpayer. I would hate to think my dollar is going over there,” he told The Advertiser.

The 51-year-old – who previously admitted that he believes his niece had “complete knowledge” of what she was doing - added that drug-runners should “get what they deserve.”

According to the publication, Sainsbury is eligible to receive funding for up to $290 an hour for eight hours a day in solicitor costs.

It’s believed her legal team is currently attempting to negotiate a plea deal ahead of a possible court hearing next week.

Amazonswatchmag on Twitter

Sainsbury is currently being held in El Buen Pastor prison in Bogota on charges of attempting to smuggle almost six kilograms of cocaine out of the country.

If found guilty, she could face up to 30 years behind bars.

This article first published on New Idea.