A U.S. state government contractor, Jarod Tyler Roberts, has admitted to possessing cocaine pellets in his stomach while attempting to leave Kenya.

Residing in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Roberts told the court that he purchased the drugs for personal use during his visit but decided to take the remaining pellets with him before departure.

A court social inquiry report revealed that Roberts has been a frequent visitor to Kenya, holding a five-year visa issued in 2024. He cited Nairobi’s vibrant nightlife and casino scene—banned in Saudi Arabia—as key reasons for his visits. Additionally, he has previously traveled to Kakamega, the hometown of his Luhya friend, Benjamin Platt.

Roberts arrived in Kenya on February 13 for a short stay and was scheduled to leave on February 16. However, upon realizing he had leftover cocaine, he attempted to smuggle it by swallowing the pellets at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). He had individually wrapped them in double-knotted latex gloves, assuming they would withstand stomach acid.

His suspicious behavior at the airport’s screening area attracted security attention. To avoid detection, he hastily swallowed the pellets but was allowed to proceed since nothing was initially found. Later, in the Business Class Lounge, he tried unsuccessfully to induce vomiting. Concerned for his health, he skipped his flight and sought medical help.

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After struggling to find assistance at a small clinic, Roberts contacted a Kenyan friend who took him to M.P. Shah Hospital. He informed doctors about the ingested drugs and was admitted. Authorities soon arrived, placing him under observation. Doctors retrieved three pellets via endoscopy, while the fourth was expelled naturally.

In court, Roberts expressed remorse, pleading for leniency as imprisonment could harm his career. His parents defended him, insisting he was not a drug addict.

Represented by lawyer Danstan Omari, Roberts has entered a plea bargain with the state, with final details pending. The case will be mentioned next Wednesday.