Carib Scope

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  • Lawyer cites Bob Marley’s lyrics in cops’ murder trial, telling prosecutor she fell in pit she dug

    Lawyer cites Bob Marley’s lyrics in cops’ murder trial, telling prosecutor she fell in pit she dug

    A murder trial for six Jamaican policemen was thrown into disarray this week as defense attorney Hugh Wildman launched explosive allegations of prosecutorial misconduct, accusing prosecutor Kathy Ann Pyke of improperly coaching witnesses during ongoing proceedings.

    The controversy centers on a meeting Pyke held with two witnesses in an annex room adjacent to Kingston’s Home Circuit Court approximately two weeks ago. Wildman contends Pyke violated fundamental legal principles by reviewing one witness’s statement in the presence of another witness while the trial was actively underway.

    Citing established common law precedents from both Jamaica and England, Wildman argued before trial Judge Sonia Bertram Linton that such coordination between witnesses constitutes unlawful coaching. He specifically moved to have the most recent witness’s testimony completely dismissed as “tainted” evidence.

    “Two or more witnesses may never be interviewed together. The statement of one witness should not be shown to another. That is exactly what happened here,” Wildman asserted in court, capturing the full attention of the seven-member jury.

    The cross-examination revealed that during the meeting, the witness reviewed her entire statement with Pyke while another witness remained present. The witness testified she asked Pyke how to proceed if she couldn’t remember details during testimony, to which Pyke allegedly advised she could request to review her statement.

    Pyke vigorously defended her actions, jumping to her feet multiple times to object to Wildman’s characterization. “There is no evidence that the witness said that she was being told how to answer the questions,” Pyke insisted, maintaining she merely prepared the witness for likely questions given the 13-year gap since the incident.

    The legal confrontation turned increasingly acrimonious as Wildman suggested Pyke could face disciplinary action from Jamaica’s General Legal Council for the allegedly improper meeting. He systematically dismantled Pyke’s legal citations, particularly distinguishing a Cayman Islands case she referenced as inapplicable to the current situation.

    “The prosecutor is caught in the act. In flagrante delicto, which is Latin,” Wildman declared, emphasizing that none of Pyke’s cited cases involved a prosecutor conducting such a conference during trial proceedings.

    The six defendants—Sergeant Simroy Mott, Corporal Donovan Fullerton, and Constables Andrew Smith, Sheldon Richards, Orandy Rose and Richard Lynch—face charges related to the January 12, 2013 shooting deaths of Matthew Lee, Mark Allen and Ucliffe Dyer. Corporal Fullerton faces additional charges for allegedly providing false statements to the Independent Commission of Investigations.

    The trial continues Tuesday with the witness testimony’s admissibility hanging in the balance amid these serious allegations of procedural misconduct.

  • Barbados and T&T seeking closer cooperation within tourism sector

    Barbados and T&T seeking closer cooperation within tourism sector

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – In a significant move to bolster regional cooperation, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago are advancing toward a formal memorandum of understanding (MOU) focused on tourism development and cultural exchange. The initiative aims to mutually enhance economic interests and strengthen bilateral ties between the two Caribbean nations.

    The discussions, held in Barbados between Tourism Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill and Trinidad’s Minister of Civil Aviation and Transport, Eli Zakour, emphasized several critical areas. Key topics included improving regional air connectivity, addressing the high cost of intra-regional travel, and launching enhanced training programs for air traffic controllers (ATCs).

    Minister Gooding-Edghill highlighted the robust state of Barbados’ tourism sector, noting substantial investments from Trinidadian entrepreneurs in ongoing hotel developments such as Hotel Indigo, the Hyatt, Pierhead Project, Royalton Vessence, Pendry Hotel, and the Blue Monkey Hotel and Beach Club. He emphasized that a structured MOU would provide a framework to maximize shared benefits and sustainable growth.

    A major focus was placed on addressing the shortage of qualified air traffic controllers. Gooding-Edghill identified a pressing training deficit and proposed utilizing Trinidad’s Civil Aviation Training Centre for accelerated instruction. He stressed the urgency of securing funding and formalizing collaboration to build capacity swiftly.

    In response, Minister Zakour expressed Trinidad’s willingness to support Barbados through a dedicated training MOU, acknowledging that ATC staffing challenges are a regional issue. He affirmed Trinidad’s commitment to assisting with aviation capacity building.

    Additional discussions covered pilot recruitment shortages, new air service agreements to improve connectivity, and strategies to engage youth in aviation careers. Both ministers agreed to continue high-level dialogues to finalize the agreement in the near future.

  • Infant dies, child injured as fire rips through Montpelier home

    Infant dies, child injured as fire rips through Montpelier home

    A tragic early morning fire in Montpelier, St. James has resulted in the death of a six-month-old infant and injuries to another child, according to local reports from Jamaica. The devastating blaze erupted approximately at 1:00 am on Tuesday within the Guinep Tree area, completely destroying a board-and-zinc residential structure.

    Emergency responders confirmed the infant succumbed to severe burn injuries sustained during the incident. Another juvenile victim sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment, though specific condition details remain undisclosed.

    Jamaica Fire Brigade personnel have deployed to the disaster site to conduct comprehensive investigations into the origin and cause of the catastrophic fire. The preliminary examination has not yet determined the ignition source or circumstances that led to the rapid spread of flames through the vulnerable housing structure.

    The incident has highlighted continuing concerns about fire safety in informal settlements across Jamaica’s parish regions. Community members have expressed grief over the tragic loss while awaiting official findings from fire investigators regarding preventable measures that might avert similar tragedies.

  • UPDATE: Infant identified after fiery death

    UPDATE: Infant identified after fiery death

    A tragic house fire in the Montpelier area of St James, Jamaica, has claimed the life of a six-month-old infant. The victim has been officially identified as Nymerah Graham, who succumbed to severe burns sustained during the devastating blaze that engulfed her family home on Guinep Tree Lane this Tuesday.

    Emergency responders reported that the fire rapidly spread through the residence where Nymerah lived with her parents and siblings. Despite desperate rescue attempts by family members, the infant suffered catastrophic burns covering her entire body. Preliminary reports indicate another child sustained injuries during the catastrophic incident, though specific details regarding their condition remain undisclosed.

    Jamaican fire investigation units have deployed personnel to the disaster scene to determine the origin and cause of the lethal fire. The community of Montpelier has been shaken by the tragedy, which highlights ongoing concerns about residential fire safety in the region. Standard investigative procedures are underway as authorities work to reconstruct the events leading to this fatal occurrence.

  • Pintard heckled as GBPA town hall turns political

    Pintard heckled as GBPA town hall turns political

    A town hall meeting convened to discuss the recent arbitration ruling involving the Grand Bahama Port Authority descended into political chaos on Monday evening, highlighting the deep partisan divisions within Bahamian politics. The event, held at the Bahamas Union of Teachers Hall in Freeport, was dominated by supporters of the ruling Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), who vocally opposed the participation of opposition leader Michael Pintard.

    The venue reached full capacity, with a significant majority of attendees adorned in PLP colors and party apparel, creating a charged atmosphere. Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis addressed the assembly, though his attempts to quiet disruptive elements during Mr. Pintard’s remarks proved ineffective. Notably, senior police officials present made minimal efforts to control the hecklers and restore order.

    Despite the meeting being held within Mr. Pintard’s Marco City constituency and billed as non-partisan, the Free National Movement (FNM) leader was excluded from the formal speaker panel, which featured attorneys Terrance Gape, Ernie Wallace, Gregory Moss, and PM Davis. FNM Member of Parliament Kwasi Thompson also faced persistent interruptions from the crowd during the question-and-answer segment as he endeavored to present his views.

    Prime Minister Davis utilized the platform to defend his government’s decision to initiate arbitration proceedings against the Grand Bahama Port Authority, asserting that the move was not personal but a necessary action against the two families owning the GBPA. He accused them of failing to meet their developmental obligations for Freeport, stating, ‘The potential of Freeport had been stalled, stagnant, and was being retarded by the fact that the shareholders had lost the vision.’ Davis revealed the government’s claim amounted to $357 million and emphasized that the next phase involves good faith negotiations, with annual payments proposed from 2024 until the Hawksbill Creek Agreement expires in 2054.

    Following the contentious meeting, Mr. Pintard criticized the government’s approach, labeling the public dispute with the GBPA as ‘detrimental to international investors’ confidence.’ He advocated for a more inclusive negotiation process involving licensees, the Chamber of Commerce, and other stakeholders, which he claimed would be standard under his administration. Pintard also called for greater transparency regarding the ruling’s outcome, noting the dismissal of the government’s claim and distancing himself from the Port Authority’s counter-claims.

  • Former AG condemns fatal shooting of dog

    Former AG condemns fatal shooting of dog

    A former Attorney General of The Bahamas has added his voice to growing public outrage over the fatal shooting of a family dog by a correctional officer, characterizing the incident as a severe misuse of firearms and a disproportionate application of force. John Delaney, who served in Cabinet under former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, stated that widely circulated video footage from Friday’s incident on Soldier Road raises profound concerns regarding officer judgment, restraint, and institutional accountability.

    Delaney expressed particular alarm at correctional officers marching in a public parade with ‘guns drawn,’ describing the display as an ostentatious and unnecessary show of force. In an official statement shared with The Tribune, he noted that the service dogs accompanying the officers demonstrated greater socialization and threat assessment capabilities than their human handler, who fatally shot the three-year-old dog belonging to veteran musician Duke Errol Strachan.

    The incident occurred as correctional officers passed Strachan’s property during a funeral procession for a retired colleague. Security footage shows two dogs on the property barking and approaching the procession. One officer, already holding his drawn firearm, discharged a single shot killing one dog instantly.

    Delaney challenged the initial characterization of the dogs by the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services (BDCS) Public Relations Department, urging a transparent investigation, appropriate disciplinary action for the officer involved, compensation for the dog’s owner, and a public apology. He emphasized that the department’s credibility remains at stake until it demonstrates its professed value for animal lives through concrete actions.

    While acknowledging that responsible dog ownership requires proper containment, Delaney noted there was no clear evidence the dogs had left their property or posed an imminent threat. He suggested officers could have simply crossed the street to avoid potential conflict, displaying better judgment and precaution.

    The BDCS has described the shooting as unfortunate and confirmed an investigation is underway, with officers involved to be interviewed. The Department of Agriculture’s Animal Control Unit has spoken with the dog’s owners and collected the animal’s remains.

  • ‘Brace for higher prices’ at the pump

    ‘Brace for higher prices’ at the pump

    Bahamian consumers face imminent increases in fuel prices as geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East drive global oil markets upward, according to industry leaders. The Bahamas Petroleum Retailers Association indicates that current retailer inventories will soon be replenished with more expensive shipments, passing increased costs directly to consumers.

    Vasco Bastian, Vice President of the BPRA, confirmed that price adjustments are inevitable though the exact timing remains uncertain. “From my perspective as a retailer,” Bastian stated, “we anticipate minor cost modifications once current stocks are depleted and new shipments arrive. The extent of increase—whether five, ten, or twenty-five cents—will be determined by wholesalers.”

    BPRA President Raymond Jones noted that wholesalers lack sufficient inventory to withstand prolonged price volatility, with new shipments expected within weeks. The ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran has already triggered reduced output from regional producers and attacks on energy infrastructure, creating widespread concerns about global supply disruptions.

    While government officials attempt to reassure citizens about stable electricity costs in the near term, Prime Minister Philip Davis acknowledged The Bahamas’ vulnerability to global oil price fluctuations. Economic Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis indicated a cautious governmental approach, monitoring developments before considering fiscal plan revisions.

    Jones warned of broader economic implications beyond fuel, including potential increases in freight costs, cargo insurance, and airline tickets. “Since everything is fuel-dependent to some degree,” he explained, “these price pressures could create worldwide knock-on effects, potentially reducing travel demand.”

    Despite the concerning outlook, Bastian urged motorists to maintain normal routines, assuring no imminent fuel shortages. He recommended practical cost-saving measures including carpooling, regular vehicle maintenance, and proper tire inflation. Current pump prices remain at $5.34 (Shell), $5.30 (Esso), and $5.31 (Rubis) as market conditions continue evolving.

  • Manchester High, Herbert Morrison to face off in ISSA rural U-16 basketball final

    Manchester High, Herbert Morrison to face off in ISSA rural U-16 basketball final

    MANCHESTER, Jamaica — The International Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) Rural Area Under-16 boys’ basketball championship will reach its dramatic conclusion on Tuesday afternoon in a winner-take-all third game. Defending champions Manchester High will host Herbert Morrison Technical at 1:00 pm in the final matchup of their best-of-three series.

    The championship series stands tied after both teams secured decisive victories on their home courts. Herbert Morrison Technical initially seized the advantage with a commanding 57-36 victory in Montego Bay. However, Manchester High responded emphatically on Friday, defending their home court with a 56-45 triumph to force the decisive third game.

    Manchester High’s comeback victory was spearheaded by an exceptional performance from Jayquan Palmer, who delivered a remarkable double-double with 17 points and 22 rebounds while adding six steals to his stat line. Teammate Wasim Windett emerged as the game’s top scorer with 21 points and five steals. The hosts established early dominance, leading 15-8 after the first quarter and maintaining control throughout the game with scores of 28-19 at halftime and 39-29 after three quarters.

    For Herbert Morrison Technical, Tyler Linton and Shamar Russell provided the offensive spark with 10 and 11 points respectively. The series opener had seen Herbert Morrison overcome a slow start, trailing 8-5 after the first quarter before unleashing a spectacular 52-28 scoring run across the final three quarters. Linton led that effort with 15 points, supported by Antonio Kerr’s 13 points, while Palmer had contributed 14 points and 11 rebounds in the losing effort for Manchester High.

  • Exploring other options

    Exploring other options

    Jamaican Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton has presented a multi-faceted strategy to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services following the conclusion of the state-to-state medical agreement with Cuba. The comprehensive plan includes individual contract offers for Cuban medical professionals wishing to remain in Jamaica, alongside aggressive international recruitment and domestic training initiatives.

    Addressing concerns about service continuity, Dr. Tufton confirmed that critical programs like the Jamaica-Cuba Eye Care Programme at St Joseph’s Hospital will continue operations until March 20th, ensuring completion of approximately 140 scheduled surgical procedures and necessary post-operative care. The minister emphasized that patient care remains the immediate priority during this transition period.

    The government’s approach includes multiple contingency measures: direct individual contracts for Cuban medical personnel, international recruitment from diaspora communities and other nations, and accelerated domestic training programs. Nearly 140 applications have already been received from international medical professionals, with 70 specialist nurses shortlisted for interviews from candidates in the United Kingdom, Canada, United States, and Ghana.

    Long-term capacity building involves several key initiatives: 48 nurses and 33 doctors through the Barry Wint Scholarship programme, 100 nurses enrolled in the ministry’s specialist nursing programme, and ongoing negotiations with Ghana, Nigeria, The Philippines, and India for training and recruitment partnerships. Cabinet has approved establishing an international recruitment unit within the ministry’s corporate services division to coordinate these efforts.

    Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie revealed that a comprehensive gap analysis is underway across public health facilities, identifying institutions like Kingston Public Hospital and Mandeville Regional Hospital that could absorb additional ophthalmology workloads if needed. Outsourcing remains a viable option to prevent treatment interruptions.

    While acknowledging potential short-term challenges and possible delays due to increased workload on local staff, Minister Tufton expressed confidence in the ministry’s preparedness. He assured that major hospital projects, including the reopening of Cornwall Regional Hospital and the Western Children and Adolescents Hospital, would proceed without disruption, though more aggressive recruitment would be necessary to address specialist shortages.

    The transition plan represents a strategic shift toward reducing Jamaica’s dependency on single-source international medical partnerships while building sustainable domestic healthcare capacity through diversified recruitment and enhanced training programs.

  • Sumfest body blow

    Sumfest body blow

    MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica — Montego Bay’s commercial sector is preparing for significant economic repercussions following the announcement that the iconic Reggae Sumfest festival will temporarily relocate to St Ann for its 2026 edition. Event producer Downsound Entertainment (DSE) revealed that next year’s festival will be condensed into a single-night event at Plantation Cove on July 18, featuring performances by Vybz Kartel and Movado—a dramatic reduction from the traditional week-long schedule that has consistently driven tourism revenue in Jamaica’s western region.

    The relocation decision stems from hurricane-related damage at the festival’s customary Catherine Hall venue, which remains insufficiently prepared following October’s Hurricane Melissa. DSE officials characterized the move as a ‘powerful evolution’ rather than a cancellation, opting for a temporary venue while maintaining the festival brand.

    Local business leaders expressed deep concern about the economic implications. Kerry Ann Quallo-Casserly, Chair of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association’s Montego Bay Chapter, confirmed that numerous businesses had already incorporated Sumfest-related revenue into their annual projections. ‘The projected jobs and revenue expected in Montego Bay will be significantly affected,’ Quallo-Casserly stated, noting that the city must now develop strategies to mitigate the anticipated financial shortfall within the next three months.

    Despite the temporary relocation, tourism stakeholders remain optimistic about Sumfest’s eventual return. The JHTA chapter is actively engaged in discussions to ensure Montego Bay’s readiness for the festival’s 2027 return, recognizing the event’s status as an ‘economic powerhouse’ for the region.

    Meanwhile, local businesses are adapting to the changed circumstances. Jason Russell, President of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and operator of Pier One waterfront venue, indicated that some subsidiary events might still occur in Montego Bay. Russell expressed understanding of the logistical challenges facing organizers, acknowledging that the relocation decision likely followed thorough deliberation.

    As compensation for the scaled-back Sumfest, Montego Bay will host the Dream Wkndz festival from July 30 to August 3—marking the first time this established Negril-based event will be held in Montego Bay. Organizers have confirmed multiple venue preparations and adequate hotel capacity to accommodate attendees, potentially softening the economic blow from Sumfest’s temporary absence.