Video: Melissa Reid’s father’s stark drug warning

Billy Reid, speaking in the new video, warning of the consequences of drug crime abroad. Picture: PA

Speaking in the video, filmed for a Foreign Office campaign, Billy Reid offers a stark warning for those involved in drug crime about the consequences not just for those involved but also their family and friends.

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Reid’s daughter Melissa was jailed for just under seven years after admitting trying to smuggle cocaine worth £1.5 million with friend and accomplice, Michaella McCollum, to Spain from Peru.

Talking about his daughter’s imprisonment Mr Reid said: “It’s had a tremendous impact on us both emotionally and financially

“It’s horrendous to see your daughter in handcuffs and the living conditions that she has to put up with. Melissa has spent her own 20th and 21st birthdays in prison in Peru.

“She missed the significant event of her only brother’s wedding. Events such as Christmas are non-existent for us.

“There’ll be no celebrations in our house, there’ll be no Christmas tree until we get her back home.”

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