value of $700.

The bride -- a self-confessed drug addict -- needed the heroin because she was suffering withdrawal symptoms.

But the package of 0.25 grams of diamorphine was discovered by Customs Officers.

In Magistrates' Court yesterday Kenneth Braun and Paula Pepper, from Massachusetts, admitted importing heroin.

Senior Magistrate the Wor. Will Francis fined them each $200.

Braun was fined a further $250 after he pleaded guilty to possessing heroin.

But Mr. Francis dismissed a charge against him of knowingly handling diamorphine intended for supply. Braun had denied the offence.

Sgt. Rex Osborne, prosecuting, said Customs Officers last week opened a parcel addressed to Braun, who was staying at a local hotel.

Once the heroin was discovered most of it was removed, said Sgt. Osborne.

But a dummy envelope with a small amount of diamorphine was placed inside the package.

Sgt. Osborne said Police watched as Braun signed for the package at his hotel and went to his room.

When officers approached Braun, he threw an object over the balcony.

"Braun was arrested and taken to the Police station,'' continued Sgt.

Osborne.

Police were told the heroin had been sent to Bermuda via a courier service.

Braun's wife needed the drug because she was having withdrawal symptoms, said Sgt. Osborne.

He added the 0.25 grams of heroin was 61 percent pure, and had a street value of $700.

Miss Sonia Grant, defending, said: "Mr. Braun finds himself caught up as a result of what his wife admitted to be a drug addiction.

"She very clearly needs assistance, which she should receive once she returns to the United States. I would like to see a minimum fine imposed.'' Mr. Francis told the couple: "In Bermuda we have to be very strict about drugs, despite the fact we want you here as guests.'' He accepted Braun had got into trouble because of his wife's addiction.

And he urged her to get help in America, adding: "You can't fight this on your own.''