UPP Supporters Return to Court in Ongoing ‘Beaches Case’

The protracted legal battle known as the ‘Beaches Case’ continues as defendants return to the Magistrate’s Court on Monday, February 23, at 9 a.m. These individuals face charges related to an alleged trespassing incident at Laurys Bay in the St. Philip North constituency that occurred on Whit Monday, June 9, 2025.

According to prosecution claims, the group unlawfully accessed property connected to a private development project during the June incident. The case has evolved beyond a simple trespassing matter, transforming into a symbol of the ongoing tension between private development and public beach access rights.

The proceedings have attracted significant political and public attention, with supporters of the accused characterizing them as patriots defending traditional public access to coastal areas. The case’s prominence was further highlighted when government officials addressed the matter during a Cabinet press briefing on June 11, 2025, confirming that development concerns had been elevated to executive-level discussions.

Monday’s hearing represents the latest development in a series of court appearances for the defendants as the judicial process continues. The outcome of this session is anticipated to provide further direction for this closely watched case that sits at the intersection of property rights and public access advocacy.