<![CDATA[Narcotics-related offenses are serious crimes that frequently utilize couriers as intermediaries within illicit trafficking networks. Law Number 35 of 2009 concerning Narcotics currently fails to clearly distinguish criminal sanctions between drug dealers and couriers. This creates challenges for judges in delivering fair and proportionate verdicts. This study aims to analyze how judges interpret the criminal liability of narcotics couriers and to evaluate the legal reasoning applied in Cikarang District Court Decision Number 375/Pid.Sus/2025/PN Ckr. The study employs a normative-juridical method with a descriptive-analytical approach. Data were collected through a documentary study of legislation, court rulings, and relevant legal literature, followed by qualitative analysis. The findings indicate that the courier's criminal liability in this case was grounded in the element of criminal conspiracy, with the defendant's intent assessed based on their awareness of the risks associated with their actions. The judge applied a broad interpretation that tended to equate the status of the courier with that of the principal offender. Judicial reasoning focused more on formal legal certainty than on substantive justice for the courier, who occupied a vulnerable position. The study recommends a clear legislative distinction regarding sanctions for couriers and encourages judges to give greater consideration to the offender's sociological background to achieve more equitable sentencing.]]>
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