A Tobago handyman has been ordered to complete 240 hours of community service after pleading guilty to issuing death threats against a senior government official through social media platforms. The Scarborough Magistrates’ Court delivered the verdict following the defendant’s admission of posting threatening comments targeting Chief Personnel Officer Dr. Daryl Dindial.
Jason Wright, 49, of Moriah, Tobago, appeared before Magistrate Gill in the Scarborough Magistrates’ 2nd Court facing charges of making statements prejudicial to public safety. The case originated on November 24 when Dr. Dindial received a WhatsApp message containing a link to a TikTok video featuring a public service announcement. Beneath the video, a user identified as ‘Buju B’ – subsequently revealed to be Wright – had posted explicit threats stating: ‘HE IS A PNM AND HE WILL NOT PAY THAT MONEY AT TIME… PPL NEED TO FIXED HIM GOOD TAKE HIS LIFE.’
The threatening message prompted immediate concern from Dr. Dindial, who expressed genuine fear for both his personal safety and that of his family members. He promptly filed an official report with the Scarborough Police Department on the same day.
Law enforcement authorities, under the leadership of ASP Piggott and Insp Mohammed, conducted a thorough investigation that led them to Wright’s residence. During questioning, the defendant confessed to publishing the threatening comment and demonstrated apparent remorse for his actions. Police confiscated three mobile devices as evidence during the arrest operation. Wright was formally charged under Section 241 of the Emergency Powers Regulations by acting Cpl Moses of the Scarborough Police Station.
The court has established stringent consequences for non-compliance with the sentencing terms. Should Wright fail to complete the mandated community service hours, he will face alternative penalties of a $3,000 fine or six months’ simple imprisonment. This case highlights the legal system’s increasing attention to digital threats and establishes precedent for social media accountability.