Carib Scope

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  • Ohio missionary indicted for child exploitation crimes in Haiti

    Ohio missionary indicted for child exploitation crimes in Haiti

    A federal grand jury in Ohio has unsealed a damning indictment against Jeriah Mast, a 44-year-old resident of Millersburg, Ohio, charging him with four distinct counts of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with minors in Haiti. The charges stem from an extensive pattern of abuse allegedly occurring during multiple trips Mast took to the Caribbean nation between 2002 and 2019.

    Court documents reveal Mast frequently traveled under the auspices of Christian Aid Ministries (CAM), a religious organization, which provided a facade for his predatory actions. Investigators obtained flight records documenting over 30 separate journeys from the United States to Haiti between November 2002 and August 2018, with each count in the indictment corresponding to the abuse of a different minor victim.

    Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division condemned the alleged crimes, stating the defendant specifically targeted ‘vulnerable children living in an impoverished nation.’ He emphasized the department’s commitment to pursuing justice for victims regardless of where such crimes occur, asserting that ‘our law enforcement partners and prosecutors will continue to relentlessly seek justice.’

    The case emerged through a collaborative investigation led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Cleveland, which received substantial assistance from the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office. Matthew Stentz, Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Detroit, highlighted the significance of the case, noting it exemplifies their mission to investigate individuals, ‘especially those in positions of trust who exploit children.’

    This prosecution forms part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, a nationwide program launched in 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. authorities are leveraging this framework to hold perpetrators accountable for crimes committed overseas, ensuring they face the full weight of American justice.

  • Denoon explains TPP switch: I chose the people

    Denoon explains TPP switch: I chose the people

    In a dramatic political realignment, former PNM Tobago West constituency chairman Keigon Denoon has publicly explained his decision to join the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) as their candidate for Buccoo/Mt Pleasant. The 29-year-old community leader addressed a packed public meeting in Bon Accord/Crown Point on December 2, revealing the profound personal and philosophical considerations behind his party switch.

    Denoon, who serves as coordinator for the Youth Energised for Success (YES) programme, acknowledged the difficulty of his decision to oppose his former PNM political leader Ancil Dennis in the upcoming January 12 Tobago House of Assembly elections. ‘If anybody had told me years ago that I would have been standing on a TPP platform, I would have looked at them and say they’re crazy,’ Denoon confessed to the audience.

    The turning point came, he revealed, after a leaked voicenote of PNM members questioning his allegiance surfaced. Shortly thereafter, approximately thirty young supporters gathered at his gate, expressing excitement about his potential representation. One youth’s poignant question particularly resonated: ‘What is more important? Is a political party more important than the people that you claim to love and to serve?’

    Denoon described TPP political leader Farley Chavez Augustine as ‘one of the most strategic individuals I’ve met in a very long time,’ praising his combination of political acumen and spiritual grounding. The young candidate emphasized that his decision was ultimately about Tobago’s advancement rather than personal ambition. ‘I am not here for the applause; I am here to serve the people of Tobago,’ he declared.

    Drawing from his extensive background in community service—including his tenure as president of the Buccoo Village Council, Programme Administrator of the YES programme, director at the Lambeau Credit Union, and Caricom Youth Ambassador—Denoon positioned himself as a advocate for Tobago’s youth, particularly those who feel voiceless in the political process.

    With the January 12 elections approaching, Denoon framed the contest as a referendum on Tobago’s future direction, urging voters to support ‘an administration that tries and puts the people of Tobago first.’

  • High Court judge renews call for in-person trials, open justice

    High Court judge renews call for in-person trials, open justice

    In a landmark judicial declaration, Justice Frank Seepersad has established that Trinidad and Tobago’s judiciary will fully revert to in-person proceedings as the standard operating protocol. This decisive shift comes after the fourth postponement of a civil case originally scheduled for December 3 at the Waterfront Judicial Centre, highlighting systemic concerns with virtual litigation platforms.

    Justice Seepersad articulated profound reservations regarding witness credibility assessment, evidence integrity preservation, and the noticeable deterioration of legal advocacy in digital environments. The jurist emphasized that fact-intensive trials require physical presence for proper evaluation of nuanced testimonial cues—including subtle facial expressions, nervous mannerisms, and evasive behaviors—all of which become compromised through electronic mediation.

    Technical deficiencies present significant obstacles to justice administration, with frozen screens, audio dropouts, and undetected signal failures undermining accurate evidence documentation. These technological shortcomings frequently escape detection by judicial support officers during proceedings. Unlike criminal divisions utilizing court-marshal-supervised virtual access centers, civil divisions operate without equivalent controlled conditions.

    Remote settings introduce additional evidentiary concerns, as the judiciary cannot guarantee witness independence from off-camera prompting or assistance. This loss of procedural control jeopardizes testimony authenticity and creates unauthorized recording risks absent in physical courtrooms.

    The qualitative decline in legal advocacy represents another critical consideration. Lawyers demonstrate reduced dynamism and persuasiveness in virtual formats, where the essential human energy exchanged in physical settings becomes entirely lost. Witness testimony from domestic or professional environments—described as ‘busy spaces’ rarely conducive to legal solemnity—further compromises courtroom formality and focus.

    While Trinidad and Tobago remains among few jurisdictions continuing virtual trials post-pandemic, Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh has prioritized reopening court facilities. The Port of Spain Magistrates’ Court exemplifies these challenges, remaining under repair with escalating costs four years after closure.

    Justice Seepersad reaffirmed commitment to open justice principles, noting that physical hearings enable public access without the approval processes that frequently result in denied virtual access. Media access links are systematically provided by judicial direction, contrasting with often-denied permission requests in virtual proceedings.

    The court will maintain virtual capabilities for procedural matters and case-management conferences, but evidentiary hearings and trials will require physical attendance. The adjourned civil matter has been rescheduled for April 2026, allowing transition to the new in-person litigation paradigm.

  • Faulty body trailer replaced at Rand amid morgue delay questions

    Faulty body trailer replaced at Rand amid morgue delay questions

    Grand Bahama’s healthcare infrastructure faces renewed scrutiny as authorities confirm the replacement of a malfunctioning refrigerated trailer used for body storage at Rand Memorial Hospital. This temporary solution highlights a deeper crisis: the prolonged delay in constructing a permanent morgue facility, originally promised for completion within seven months after a $1.6 million contract was signed in June 2022.

    Public Hospitals Authority Managing Director Dr. Aubenette Rolle verified the defective trailer was swapped on Monday, calling it ‘fully functional’ while deflecting questions about allocated funds for the permanent morgue. The replacement comes after the previous temporary unit collapsed, reigniting concerns about the island’s inadequate deathcare infrastructure that has persisted since Hurricane Dorian’s devastation.

    The stalled morgue project, awarded to Pinnacle Investment Company Limited, was designed to modernize facilities, expand capacity, and repair storm damage. Yet after more than two years, no substantial progress is visible. Opposition parliamentarian Kwasi Thompson (East Grand Bahama) condemned the situation as emblematic of governmental neglect and eroded accountability, stating the failure ‘undermines public confidence in handling larger issues.’

    Adding to criticism, Omar Isaacs—Free National Movement candidate for West Grand Bahama and Bimini—lambasted the absence of a proper morgue as ‘unacceptable’ for what is considered the nation’s ‘second city.’ He accused the administration of consistent mismanagement and misplaced budgetary priorities, arguing that basic amenities remain overlooked despite repeated funding allocations.

    Officials have historically emphasized the critical importance of reliable morgue services for respectful body storage, efficient autopsy procedures, and overall hospital operations. The continued reliance on temporary trailers since 2019’s hurricane reveals systemic infrastructure vulnerabilities and unfulfilled governmental commitments to Grand Bahamians.

  • Man caught with dozens of cocaine pellets to be sentenced

    Man caught with dozens of cocaine pellets to be sentenced

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A Kingston court has deferred sentencing until 2026 for Ricardo Muir, a 38-year-old Jamaican national who admitted to drug-related charges this week. The defendant appeared before Senior Parish Judge Sanchia Burrell in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court, where he entered a guilty plea for possession and dealing in cocaine.

    The legal proceedings took an unexpected turn when Muir’s defense counsel initially petitioned for the case to be transferred to Jamaica’s drug treatment court system, which emphasizes rehabilitation over incarceration for substance-related offenses. This judicial alternative typically applies to individuals struggling with addiction rather than those involved in drug distribution networks.

    Prosecution authorities presented compelling evidence detailing how law enforcement officials intercepted Muir in the early hours of May 23rd with 78 individually wrapped pellets of cocaine, collectively weighing approximately one pound. During questioning under caution, the defendant allegedly disclosed that the narcotics were intended for transfer to another party for international transportation.

    Despite admitting to domestic drug offenses, Muir maintained his innocence regarding the more serious charge of attempting to export controlled substances. This strategic partial plea arrangement followed extensive consultation between the defendant and his legal representative. The court has scheduled sentencing for February 27, 2026, allowing for comprehensive presentencing investigations.

  • DJ Linkage mourns mom following dementia battle

    DJ Linkage mourns mom following dementia battle

    The New York music community joins renowned disc jockey Dexter ‘DJ Linkage’ Blake in mourning the passing of his mother, Mary Hinds, who died on November 29 at the age of 87. Her death concludes a prolonged struggle with dementia, marking the departure of a woman celebrated for her radiant personality and remarkable resilience.

    In a heartfelt tribute, DJ Linkage memorialized his mother as his foundational support system and a source of boundless joy. ‘My mother was everything to me,’ he expressed. ‘She possessed an extraordinary gift for humor that could illuminate any room. Her infectious zest for life touched everyone she met. She was a truly beautiful soul.’ The DJ shared his profound comfort in knowing his mother had made peace with her departure, stating, ‘Before she died, she went to God and said she was ready to leave this world, so I know she is in heaven now.’

    Mary Hinds’ legacy is one of strength and survival, having previously triumphed over cancer. She leaves behind a substantial family legacy, survived by her seven children—six sons and one daughter.

    One of DJ Linkage’s most cherished memories involves a special Mother’s Day broadcast on his platform, Linkage Radio. He recalled, ‘She joined me for the show and had the entire switchboard lighting up with listeners responding to her endless stream of jokes.’

    Summarizing the profound sense of loss, the DJ poetically noted that a ‘great light has been dimmed.’ In a final, moving homage, he said, ‘Mama, when you left, the light in the city dimmed just to see how bright a star you are….We will miss you.’

  • Bird Flu outbreak at Cayman farm

    Bird Flu outbreak at Cayman farm

    Health authorities in the Cayman Islands have confirmed a significant outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza at a commercial farm in Grand Cayman, triggering immediate containment protocols and nationwide alerts for animal owners. The discovery emerged following the unexplained death of multiple turkeys on November 28th, with subsequent laboratory analysis confirming the presence of the highly pathogenic bird flu strain.

    Government agencies have launched a comprehensive emergency response, confirming infection across 69 birds of various species including chickens, turkeys, quails, domesticated ducks, and wild whistling ducks and geese. In accordance with international health protocols, all infected birds have been systematically culled to prevent further viral spread.

    Local response teams have initiated extensive depopulation operations within the affected zone, targeting both domesticated animals and wild bird populations to establish containment buffers. The Cayman Islands government has issued urgent advisories to all animal owners, emphasizing heightened vigilance and immediate reporting of any unusual symptoms in pets or livestock.

    While no additional outbreaks have been identified beyond the initial infection site, and no human transmission cases have been documented, health officials maintain elevated surveillance levels. The incident marks the territory’s first confirmed avian influenza outbreak this season, prompting coordination with international health organizations to monitor potential spread patterns.

  • Couva Police Council deepens ties with central communities

    Couva Police Council deepens ties with central communities

    In a strategic move to fortify community relations, the Couva Police Station Community Council (CPSCC) has successfully orchestrated a youth football tournament that brought together young athletes from across central Trinidad. The event, held at Caldrac Grounds in California on November 30, served as both a sporting competition and a crime prevention initiative.

    Bishop Ezekiel Clarke, CPSCC president, emphasized the dual purpose of the sporting venture: ‘Our youth represent one of our primary focus groups. This tournament isn’t just about football—it’s about steering young people away from criminal pathways and nurturing them into exemplary citizens.’ Clarke shares leadership responsibilities with Inspector Khan of the Couva Police, both envisioning expanded volunteer services in the coming years.

    The CPSCC operates as an elected advisory body comprising both law enforcement officials and civilian representatives. Its mandate encompasses providing advisory support to police, organizing community enrichment programs, promoting culturally sensitive engagements, and supporting crime prevention efforts across multiple communities including Couva, Lisas Gardens, California, Dow Village, and several other regions.

    Golden Tigers Football Academy from Dow Village, California, dominated the competition under coach Edna St. Louis, securing championship titles in both Under-17 and Under-13 divisions. The academy’s Kern Pollard claimed Under-17 Most Valuable Player honors, while teammate Elijah Austin achieved a remarkable double victory in the Under-13 category, earning both MVP and Top Scorer awards.

    Organizers extended gratitude to the events committee, volunteers, sponsors, coaches, parents, and community residents whose collective efforts ensured the tournament’s resounding success. The event demonstrated how athletic competition can serve as a powerful vehicle for community building and youth development.

  • PNM senator: Stand-your-ground law won’t protect people

    PNM senator: Stand-your-ground law won’t protect people

    In a contentious Senate session on December 2, 2025, Temporary Opposition Senator Sanjiv Boodhu delivered a comprehensive critique of the proposed Home Invasion (Self-Defence and Defence of Property) Bill, challenging its fundamental effectiveness in addressing criminal activities. Speaking during parliamentary debates, Boodhu—who also serves as a deputy political leader for the PNM—directly contradicted government assertions that the legislation would empower citizens to protect themselves during home invasions.

    Boodhu systematically dismantled claims made by Government Senator Dr. Natalie Chaitan-Maharaj, arguing that the bill’s purported benefits would only apply to the limited segment of the population with legal access to firearms. ‘This legislation, despite its accompanying messaging, provides no mechanism for law-abiding citizens to legally obtain firearms,’ he emphasized, highlighting what he characterized as a critical flaw in the proposed law.

    The opposition senator further challenged the government’s foundational premise that existing laws are insufficient to address home invasion crimes, noting that Attorney General John Jeremie, SC, had previously referenced relevant legislation that has been operational since 1971. ‘I cannot comprehend what insufficiency or ambiguity exists in a 54-year-old legal framework,’ Boodhu stated, adding that he was unaware of any instances where law enforcement encountered difficulties in charging individuals for home break-ins.

    Boodhu presented a detailed analysis of the home invasion process, identifying multiple stages including victim surveillance, execution of the crime, escape evasion, and monetization of stolen goods. He acknowledged the severity of crimes committed during such invasions, including ‘violent assaults, robberies, larceny, and sexual offenses,’ but maintained that the proposed legislation fails to address any of these criminal elements.

    The senator criticized the bill for lacking provisions to enhance police capabilities in intelligence gathering, communication interception, or specialized unit formation. ‘It provides no assistance to law enforcement in intercepting criminal communications during any stage of home invasions,’ he noted. Additionally, Boodhu warned that the legislation would potentially exacerbate case backlogs within the criminal justice system rather than alleviating them, with his sole positive acknowledgment being the previous administration’s elimination of preliminary inquiries to reduce judicial congestion.

  • TPP’s Williams-Orr: Radar is ‘Christmas gift’ for Crown Point

    TPP’s Williams-Orr: Radar is ‘Christmas gift’ for Crown Point

    A controversial US military-grade radar installation at Tobago’s ANR Robinson International Airport has ignited both concern and unexpected celebration within the Caribbean community. Certica Williams-Orr, Tobago People’s Party member and former THA councillor, characterized the advanced surveillance system as an early “Christmas gift” for Crown Point residents during a December 2nd political gathering in Bon Accord.

    The radar, identified as resembling Northrop Grumman’s AN/TPS-80 ground/air task-oriented radar (G/ATOR), represents cutting-edge military technology currently deployed by both the US Marine Corps and Air Force. According to manufacturer specifications, the system provides comprehensive 360-degree surveillance capabilities with advanced threat detection for cruise missiles, hypersonic weapons, ballistic missiles, and both manned and unmanned aircraft.

    The installation process revealed significant transparency issues within Tobago’s governance structure. Chief Secretary Farley Augustine acknowledged learning about the radar deployment through media and WhatsApp reports rather than official channels, while Prime Minister Keith Rowley initially treated the matter as classified national security information.

    Defence Minister Wayne Sturge addressed growing public apprehension during a November 29th media conference, emphasizing the system’s domestic security applications. He clarified that the primary function involves identifying illegal flights and drone operations associated with drug trafficking networks targeting the island.

    Augustine subsequently received assurances from central government authorities that the radar would not be utilized by US forces for offensive operations against any nation. The technological deployment occurs amid ongoing production to satisfy both US military requirements and select international customers, positioning Tobago at the forefront of regional security infrastructure.

    Williams-Orr’s festive metaphor during her public address highlighted the unusual nature of the security upgrade: “Brothers and sisters, Bon Accord/Crown Point, you have to show off yuh self. You have been so much in the news. Last week, you get your gift already for Christmas. You have a whole radar in the air.”