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I wasn’t jailed in Dubai, claims Austin

In his latest comments posted on the US-based online magazine, EURweb.com, Austin clarified that he was not put behind bars following his arrest at the Dubai International Airport (DIA) on May 19 for possessing 1.26 grams of cocaine, an illegal substance.

“I wasn’t in prison, it was nothing like that. The facility where I was kept had plasma TVs and other luxuries. Knowing that I was gonna leave this place, I had one of the best experiences I could ever have.”

The online magazine also reported that Austin never thought his incarceration would be something permanent, despite reports that his offence carried a life sentence, and in some cases, execution.

“I appreciate everybody’s prayers and everything, but it was nowhere near what got out in the press. It got turned into a big issue just from hearsay.”

Austin was arrested at the Dubai airport on his way to attend supermodel Naomi Campbell’s birthday bash in Dubai. He was held for 16 days by the Dubai authorities and was charged by the Public Prosecution for carrying the banned substance. On July 4, a verdict was issued by the Dubai Court of First Instance, sentencing the American artiste to four years in prison followed by deportation. However, a few hours later on the same day, he received royal pardon and was repatriated to the US on July 6.

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