Prominent television personality Ian Alleyne has initiated legal action against San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris following allegedly defamatory statements made on social media platforms. Through his legal representatives Saira Lakhan and Devi Ramnarine, Alleyne has issued a pre-action protocol letter demanding resolution by January 9 deadline.
The dispute originates from a Facebook post published by Mayor Parris on December 11, 2025, which specifically referenced Alleyne during his legitimate journalistic coverage of a fire incident at Radica Trading Building on Cipero Street. The controversial post allegedly characterized the Crime Watch host as an ‘attention seeker’ and incorporated language described as derogatory slang within local vernacular.
Legal counsel emphasizes that Parris, serving as both sitting mayor and ‘first citizen’ of San Fernando, possesses amplified influence that compounds the severity of such public statements. The attorneys contend that the mayor’s substantial social media presence across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn significantly expanded the dissemination of the allegedly defamatory content.
Although the original post was subsequently removed, attorneys confirm that screenshots were captured and redistributed by prominent social media accounts, generating thousands of interactions and extending the content’s reach to international audiences. This widespread circulation allegedly resulted in substantial professional and personal consequences for Alleyne.
The legal filing details multiple damages including reputational harm, emotional distress, loss of business opportunities during critical Christmas programming period, and negative impact on Alleyne’s family members, particularly his teenage son. Additionally, the television host reportedly declined professional engagements and media appearances due to the resulting controversy.
The pre-action letter demands immediate cessation of defamatory statements, public apology published on the original Facebook platform, and compensation for demonstrated losses. Should Mayor Parris fail to comply by the 4 pm January 9 deadline, attorneys confirm they will file formal defamation proceedings in the High Court seeking damages and injunctive relief.