possessing nearly 40 grams of cannabis and drug equipment were slapped with a $3,000 fine. However, their penalty was immediately reduced to $2,000 by a sympathetic Magistrate after the teens nearly broke down.

New York City residents Eric DeMartin and John J. Curtain, both 17 and passengers aboard The Royal Majesty , were arrested after Customs officers in Hamilton discovered DeMartin in possession of a marijuana cigarette while Curtain was found with a pipe, containing plant like material, and rolling papers.

A subsequent search of their cabin uncovered a suitcase containing a ziplock plastic bag of plant like material -- later determined to be 39.15 grams of marijuana -- and a second bag containing seeds and more rolling papers. Police Prosecutor Sgt. Phil Taylor said the two were arrested and taken to Hamilton Police station.

Sgt. Taylor told the court the pair, both honours students, were travelling with Curtain's parents -- who were celebrating their 19th wedding anniversary.

They told Police the drugs were for their own personal use.

After pleading guilty before Magistrate Edward King, DeMartin and Curtain bowed their heads and appeared set to burst into tears.

"This is something I never should have done; I ruined my parents vacation.

This was their time,'' said a subdued Curtain.

Added DeMartin: "I'm very, very sorry. It was a stupid thing to do. I had no idea how serious this was.'' Both teens apologised to the court and their parents.

Before sentencing Mr. King warned: "You boys came close to going to prison. I say that there is one law for everyone, that's what I say at least.'' He then fined them $750 each for possession of cannabis and $750 each for the drug equipment, a fine totalling $3,000.

He then asked Martin and Curtain if they had the money to pay the fine. When they replied they did not, Mr. King said: "You boys are in trouble.'' He then asked Mr. Curtain how long it would take to get the money. Upset and seemingly overwhelmed by the weight of the fine, the elder Curtain told the Court he did not know.

After a brief conversation with Sgt. Taylor, Mr. King asked if they had $2,000 on hand; Mr. Curtain told him he did.

Mr. King then reduced the fines on the possession of drug equipment to $250 each, bringing the fine down to $2,000.