For a disabled resident of a small community in Saint Lucia, the walls that once offered comfort and safety have become a source of constant terror. Ronnie Philgence, who lives in the Ti Rocher neighborhood of Micoud alongside his 94-year-old mother, has endured two violent home break-ins in the span of just three days – an experience that has left both he and his aging parent traumatized, anxious, and convinced they will be targeted again.
Philgence, who lives with chronic arthritis and relies on crutches to move around, opened up about his ordeal in an interview with local outlet St Lucia Times. He says that the repeated attacks have shattered any sense of security he once had in his own home, and that his mobility limitations and his mother’s advanced age make his family an obvious target for criminal groups.
The first invasion unfolded on July 4, when three men wearing face coverings to conceal their identities forced their way past the home’s entry points. Philgence was held at gunpoint while the intruders ransacked every room of the property, searching for valuables. Before fleeing the scene, the intruders made off with roughly 6,000 Eastern Caribbean dollars in cash. After the shock of the first attack faded, Philgence held out hope that the ordeal was over – that the thieves had taken what they wanted and would not return. That hope was shattered just three days later.
On the second occasion, four masked assailants returned to the home and forced their way inside once again. This time, the intruders stole a range of household electronics, including a television, multiple gaming consoles, and a stereo system. Before driving away, they also stole Philgence’s personal vehicle.
Law enforcement authorities have since located and recovered the stolen vehicle, but the return of his property has done little to ease Philgence’s fear. Even with the car back in his possession, he remains convinced that his family’s vulnerability makes them a continued target for the same group of attackers.
“They know we’re vulnerable,” Philgence explained, when asked why he believes the intruders could strike a third time. “I’m afraid of the house. Once it’s nighttime, I get afraid. I’m very scared for my life.”
As local police continue their official investigations into both break-in incidents, Philgence says he has one simple, unmet wish: to be able to feel safe and at peace in his own home once again.