A significant firearms case unfolded at the Serious Offences Court in Kingstown, St. Vincent, resulting in divergent legal paths for five defendants facing weapon possession charges. Tevin Snagg became the sole individual to admit guilt on Old Year’s Day (December 31, 2026) for illegally possessing a .22 caliber revolver and corresponding ammunition without proper licensing under the Firearms Act. The alleged offenses occurred in Canouan on December 30, 2025.
Meanwhile, co-defendants Michael Simmons, Ashura Davis, Shantel Sharpe, and Javon Barnwell maintained their innocence by entering not guilty pleas to identical charges. The prosecution, led by Sergeant of Police Shamrack Pierre, requested a continuance until Monday to consult with the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding case strategy.
The courtroom atmosphere grew tense as female defendants attempted to conceal their identities upon arrival. Prosecutors did not oppose bail for the four pleading not guilty but successfully argued for Snagg’s remand pending sentencing proceedings. Defense attorney Grant Connell, representing all five accused, raised no objections to the prosecution’s requests.
Chief Magistrate Colin John implemented a bifurcated approach: Snagg remains incarcerated until Monday’s factual hearing and sentencing, while the other defendants secured release against EC$10,000 bail each with one surety. All accused individuals maintain residential connections to Canouan and Barrouallie according to court documents.