Parker, a 29-year-old software engineer from the United Kingdom, was arrested on January 21, 2025, in Kuta, Bali, after receiving a package that had arrived from abroad. The parcel contained just over one kilogram of MDMA, also known as ecstasy.

He was apprehended during a controlled delivery operation staged by customs and narcotics officers.

Parker was initially charged under Article 113(2) of Indonesia’s 2009 Narcotics Law, which allows for a maximum sentence of death and a minimum of six years for trafficking large quantities of Class I narcotics.

During the investigation, Parker explained the drugs were sent by a friend named Nicky without his knowledge. His legal team argued there was no proof he ordered or expected the MDMA shipment.

The prosecution eventually acknowledged this lack of intent, and his charges were reduced accordingly.

On July 15, 2025, the court sentenced Parker to 10 months in prison, citing his cooperation, remorse, lack of criminal history, and non-commercial involvement in the case.

He accepted the verdict and is expected to be released by November 2025 with time served.

1. Thomas Parker in custody after sentencing

2. Evidence presented during the press conference

3. Indonesian police briefing following arrest

Indonesia enforces some of the toughest drug laws in the world, and Parker’s sentence stands out for its relative leniency. His case is being seen as a possible sign of shifting judicial attitudes when intent and cooperation are clearly demonstrated.

Parker is being held at Kerobokan Prison in Bali. If he qualifies for sentence remission, he may be released even earlier than November. He is not expected to appeal or seek deportation.