Carib Scope

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  • Epstein offered ex-prince Andrew meeting with Russian woman–files

    Epstein offered ex-prince Andrew meeting with Russian woman–files

    LONDON, United Kingdom – Freshly disclosed legal documents have unveiled disturbing communications between convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and Prince Andrew, Duke of York, revealing Epstein’s attempt to introduce a Russian woman to the British royal in 2010.

    The correspondence, among millions of pages released by the U.S. Justice Department, contains an August 12, 2010 email where Epstein proposed that the prince meet “a friend who I think you might enjoy having dinner with.” Epstein described the woman as a 26-year-old Russian national who was both “clever and beautiful,” noting she would be in London from August 20-24.

    Court records indicate Prince Andrew inquired what Epstein had told the woman about him and whether she would be delivering “a message” from Epstein. The Duke subsequently responded that he would be in Geneva on August 22 but expressed he “would be delighted to see her.”

    Additional communications from September 2010 reveal discussions about a potential private dinner at Buckingham Palace. Epstein contacted Andrew during a London stay, writing: “What time would you like me… we will also need (to)… have private time.” Andrew responded by offering dinner at the palace with “lots of privacy,” later extending an invitation for Epstein to come “with whomever” between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

    The documents contain no evidence confirming whether either proposed meeting actually occurred. These revelations emerge against the backdrop of Epstein’s August 2010 probation from house arrest following his conviction for procuring an underage girl for prostitution.

    This disclosure further contradicts Prince Andrew’s previous claims to the BBC that he had severed ties with Epstein by December 2010. The royal, who was stripped of all titles by King Charles III last year following extensive controversy over his association with Epstein, has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

    The documents add context to the ongoing scandal that culminated in Andrew’s removal from royal duties and his Windsor estate. The prince previously settled a multi-million-pound lawsuit with Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre, who alleged she was trafficked to have sex with Andrew on three occasions while she was a minor. Andrew denied the allegations without admitting guilt. Giuffre died by suicide in Australia this past April, while Epstein died by suicide in jail in 2019.

  • ‘Batman’ pleads guilty to manslaughter, apologies to victim’s family

    ‘Batman’ pleads guilty to manslaughter, apologies to victim’s family

    A decade-long legal proceeding reached its conclusion this week as Shervon Darvick “Batman” Grant received his final sentencing for the 2014 fatal stabbing of Damien Alexander. Justice Devan Rampersad presided over the case at the High Court, delivering a sentence that accounts for Grant’s extensive pre-trial incarceration and guilty plea.

    The incident traces back to June 7, 2014, when a violent confrontation erupted outside the Universal Bar in St. James at approximately 4:10 am. Surveillance footage and witness accounts detailed how Grant, then 32, engaged in a heated argument with Alexander that escalated dramatically. During the altercation, Grant shattered a Carib beer bottle and wielded the broken implement, resulting in a severe neck wound that proved fatal.

    Emergency responders transported Alexander to St. James Hospital before transferring him to Port of Spain General Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Crime scene investigators documented critical evidence including the broken bottle, blood samples, and a blood-soaked bandana. Grant was apprehended shortly thereafter at Freddie’s Bakery on Church Street.

    Forensic pathologist Dr. Hugh Des Vignes confirmed the cause of death as a single stab or incised wound to the neck. During police interrogation on June 9, 2014, Grant acknowledged his presence at the scene and admitted to the stabbing after reviewing CCTV evidence.

    The judicial process spanned eleven years, beginning with murder charges filed on June 13, 2014. The case progressed through preliminary inquiries from 2015-2017, culminating in indictment proceedings in 2021. A breakthrough occurred in November 2025 when Grant, through his legal representatives Tristle Khan-Leu and Tracy Wiltshire, negotiated a plea agreement with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, reducing the charge to manslaughter.

    In mitigation arguments, the defense emphasized the spontaneous nature of the offense, noting Grant’s intoxication during the incident and his immediate cooperation with authorities. The court received documentation of Grant’s rehabilitation efforts during his 11-year, 7-month pre-sentence detention, including academic pursuits, prison programming, and his role as assistant pastor with The Way of Holiness ministry.

    Justice Rampersad evaluated multiple sentencing factors including retribution, deterrence, public protection, and rehabilitation. The final judgment incorporated substantial credit for time served and the guilty plea, resulting in a remaining sentence of just over four years.

    A profound letter of remorse from Grant was entered into the court record, expressing deep regret to Alexander’s family: “I know that what I did was wrong, and I take full responsibility for my actions. I know that being ‘out of it’ is no excuse. A person’s life is precious, and I had no right to take his.” Grant additionally apologized to his own family for the shame and pain caused by his actions, detailing his spiritual transformation and commitment to societal reintegration.

  • Grammy win was real career boost — Gramps Morgan

    Grammy win was real career boost — Gramps Morgan

    A decade after their landmark Grammy victory, the members of Morgan Heritage are reflecting on how their 2016 win for Best Reggae Album transformed their musical legacy. The prestigious award for ‘Strictly Roots’ arrived at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony held at Los Angeles’ Staples Center on February 15, 2016, marking a career-defining moment for the seasoned reggae ensemble.

    Roy ‘Gramps’ Morgan recently recounted the unexpected nomination announcement in December 2015. ‘The nomination definitely caught us by surprise,’ he shared with the Jamaica Observer. ‘For many years we simply created music, enjoyed recording albums, and planned tours. It was business as usual—we never anticipated such recognition.’

    The emotional climax arrived when the group was announced as winners. Gramps described being ‘overcome with emotion’ and immediately sharing the triumph with family members, particularly his father who had provided their musical foundation. ‘Being nominated for a Grammy represents one of the highest achievements in music,’ he emphasized.

    The Grammy recognition fundamentally altered the band’s trajectory. ‘The world reexamined our band after numerous albums,’ Gramps noted. ‘People began taking us seriously despite our extensive collaborations and production work. The Grammy Award-winning designation enhanced our branding, but maintaining our legacy for future generations remains our ongoing mission.’

    ‘Strictly Roots,’ released March 31, 2015 through CTBC Music Group, featured twelve tracks with notable collaborations including Chronixx, Jo Mersa Marley, Eric Rachmany of Rebelution, and J Boog. The album prevailed over strong contenders including works by Barrington Levy, Luciano, Jah Cure, and Rocky Dawuni.

    Gramps characterized the album’s creation as ‘a calm, fun process with a collaborative mentality.’ The recording incorporated musicians from Stephen Marley’s and Shaggy’s bands, alongside UK contributors including members from UB40. Promotion relied heavily on grassroots marketing strategies both domestically and internationally, with Gramps acknowledging the enduring support of Jamaican media throughout their career.

    The retrospective emerges as the music community prepares for the 2026 Grammy Awards, scheduled for February 1 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The upcoming Best Reggae Album category features nominees Lila Ike, Keznamdi, Mortimer, Vybz Kartel, and Jesse Royal, continuing the tradition that first brought Morgan Heritage to Grammy prominence.

  • Scotiabank’s $11m helped fuel massive meal drive after Melissa

    Scotiabank’s $11m helped fuel massive meal drive after Melissa

    In a significant post-disaster relief initiative, Scotiabank’s partnership with World Central Kitchen (WCK) has successfully provided over 6.7 million meals to communities across western Jamaica devastated by Hurricane Melissa. The Category 5 storm struck the island on October 28, 2025, creating unprecedented humanitarian challenges.

    The comprehensive relief operation was fueled by Scotiabank’s CAD$100,000 (JMD$11 million) donation and supported by volunteers from the Scotia Foundation. This contribution formed part of the bank’s broader JMD$165 million commitment to Jamaica’s recovery efforts following the catastrophic hurricane.

    Yanique Forbes Patrick, Head of Caribbean Corporate Affairs at Scotiabank, emphasized the strategic importance of addressing food insecurity immediately after the disaster. “Beyond merely feeding people, our collaboration with WCK aimed to restore dignity and comfort during a period of profound need,” Forbes stated. “The community spirit witnessed throughout this response has been truly inspirational.”

    The partnership enabled WCK to rapidly scale operations by deploying specialized teams, collaborating with local chefs, and partnering with area restaurants. This coordinated effort ensured that meals combined nutritional value with familiar Jamaican flavors, providing both physical nourishment and emotional comfort to affected families.

    On Christmas Eve, Scotia Foundation volunteers participated directly in meal distribution at Catherine Hall Primary School in St. James, where over 1,000 families received support just before the holidays. This hands-on involvement allowed bank representatives to observe the tangible impact of their contribution.

    Tunde Wackman, Chief Development Officer at World Central Kitchen, expressed gratitude for Scotiabank’s support: “This partnership enabled us to reach significantly more people with hot, culturally appropriate meals when food security represented a primary concern for Jamaican families. Proper nourishment strengthens both body and spirit, facilitating community healing.”

    The nearly three-month relief operation concludes shortly, having effectively bridged the critical gap in food access while communities worked to restore utilities, livelihoods, and normal routines. Scotiabank’s additional JMD$18 million support to Food For the Poor further demonstrates the institution’s comprehensive approach to disaster recovery in the region.

  • From ruins to reopening, Tidy Tots shines again

    From ruins to reopening, Tidy Tots shines again

    Tidy Tots Educare, an early childhood institution in Black River, St Elizabeth, has triumphantly reopened its doors following extensive damage from Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic passage three months prior. The Category 5 storm had obliterated the school’s roof, ceiling, windows, partitions, and furniture, rendering the facility completely inoperable and displacing its 100 students.

    The school’s principal, Janet Clarke, described the profound emotional and physical devastation: ‘The wind destroyed everything. We had to engage parents immediately as we had no viable structure.’ The disaster forced numerous families to relocate from the community entirely, with student enrollment initially dropping by half at a temporary location provided by another institution.

    Restoration became possible through an extraordinary collaboration initiated when parent Eleanor Muir documented the damage on social media. Her viral video captured the attention of JN Life Insurance executives Susan Holness and Othneil Blagrove, who personally visited the site. ‘When I saw what Hurricane Melissa left behind, I felt sad and wanted to see it first-hand,’ Holness stated. Blagrove, who has childhood connections to the area, emphasized the project’s personal significance.

    JN Life Insurance partnered with NORTAS Engineering and Contracting Ltd, whose CEO Nichlous Stewart provided complimentary labor while JN Life supplied all construction materials. This joint effort enabled comprehensive refurbishment of the learning environment, allowing full resumption of educational activities.

    The Early Childhood Commission reported widespread sectoral impact, with 466 of Jamaica’s 2,420 early childhood institutions affected by the hurricane. Executive Director Dr. Karlene DeGrasse-Deslandes noted that despite significant disruptions to 24,058 infants and 2,305 practitioners, recovery has progressed remarkably, with 99.1% of institutions now reopened—a testament to national resilience and dedicated restoration efforts.

  • GLENN STEPS UP

    GLENN STEPS UP

    While pursuing his professional cricket ambitions, Jamaican all-rounder Javelle Glenn remains deeply committed to supporting grassroots development in his community. The 27-year-old cricketer, who has gained recognition in regional circuits for his left-handed batting and right-arm wrist spin bowling, recently partnered with UK-based coach Shemar Anderson to donate approximately $300,000 worth of cricket equipment to their alma mater, Tarrant High School.

    Glenn’s connection to Tarrant High runs deeper than typical alumni relations. Having grown up mere meters from the school in the Molynes Road area of St. Andrew, and within proximity to the historic Melbourne Cricket Club where he continues to train, the institution represents an extension of his personal sporting journey. His decision to support the school’s cricket program stems from firsthand experience with the financial barriers that prevent many aspiring athletes from pursuing the sport seriously.

    “When my mentor Shemar Anderson proposed the idea of giving back to our school, I immediately embraced the opportunity,” Glenn told the Jamaica Observer. “I remember our struggles during my school days—sharing inadequate equipment, lacking proper bats and gloves. That experience motivated my desire to ensure current students don’t face similar limitations.”

    The donation addresses significant challenges facing Tarrant High’s cricket program, which has struggled with inconsistent participation due to limited resources and waning student interest. Glenn acknowledges that maintaining cricket programs has been difficult for many schools, but he’s optimistic about Tarrant’s resurgence in upcoming competitions.

    Professionally, Glenn has been building an impressive record that positions him as a rising star in Caribbean cricket. His performance during the 2024 Super50 Cup included his first century at that level—an unbeaten 114 against Leeward Islands Hurricanes—finishing the tournament with a 49.5 average. In April 2025, he scored his maiden first-class century (140 not out) against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force, accumulating 478 runs at a 43.45 average in the last season.

    As the new first-class season approaches in April, many cricket enthusiasts anticipate Glenn taking on greater responsibility in Jamaica Scorpions’ batting order. The team finished fifth last season, while Guyana Harpy Eagles claimed the championship title.

    “I’m building on last season’s nearly 500 runs and aiming to perform even better this year,” Glenn stated. “Our preparation has been comprehensive—fielding, fitness, gym work—and I’m trusting the process and faith for a successful season ahead.”

  • Grieving mom finds God’s strength at daughter’s funeral

    Grieving mom finds God’s strength at daughter’s funeral

    CROSS KEYS, Manchester — A community united in grief witnessed an extraordinary display of spiritual fortitude Friday as Samantha Biggs addressed congregants at her nine-year-old daughter’s funeral service. Defying expectations, the bereaved mother delivered a powerful eulogy at Cross Keys Church of God of Prophecy, attributing her composure to divine intervention rather than personal strength.

    “Many may find my presence here surprising,” Biggs acknowledged before the assembled mourners. “Yet I felt compelled to speak today. I am sustained by the conviction that power exists to secure justice for Amoya Moore.” Her declaration resonated through the sanctuary, generating supportive affirmations from attendees.

    The tragedy occurred December 9 when Amoya, a fourth-grade student at Villa Road Primary School, was fatally struck by a garbage truck moments after exchanging morning greetings with its crew. The incident occurred mere meters from her family residence in Bonitto Heights, Mandeville, at approximately 7:00 am.

    In emotionally raw remarks, Biggs rejected conventional eulogy conventions: “I will not offer polished speeches that might deepen my anguish. My child is physically absent, yet her spirit remains ever-present within my heart and memories.” She described the aftermath as “profoundly traumatic,” noting the particular difficulty of mornings without her daughter’s vibrant presence.

    Investigation updates remained unavailable from Mandeville police through Friday. An alleged eyewitness expressed frustration to local media, claiming investigators had not collected their statement despite willingness to cooperate.

    School Principal Brent James memorialized Amoya as an “impactful student” known for radiating joy and respect. He recalled her habit of addressing staff with familial terms—calling him “daddy”—and shared a poignant memory of her abandoning her father’s hand to embrace him during a chance meeting.

    The school announced establishment of a memorial scholarship honoring Amoya’s characteristics, with stakeholders pledging support to perpetuate her legacy. The ceremony concluded with peers from Villa Road Primary weeping openly during musical tributes, their grief mirroring the community’s overwhelming loss. Amoya’s pink casket featured photographs alongside the inscription: “Rest peacefully, our angel.”

  • ‘12 years not enough’

    ‘12 years not enough’

    Alicia King, a survivor of a horrific arson attack, has voiced complex emotions regarding the 12-year prison sentence given to her former partner, Antwone Grey. While expressing profound gratitude for the judicial outcome, she simultaneously conveyed her belief that the punishment does not fully reflect the immense physical and psychological suffering she has endured, which includes undergoing more than 30 surgeries with several more life-threatening procedures ahead.

    The brutal incident occurred on August 24, 2023, when Grey, also known as ‘Bad Fowl,’ doused King with a flammable substance and set her ablaze at her St. Catherine residence. He was subsequently convicted on multiple charges, including arson, attempted murder, and assault occasioning grievous bodily harm.

    In a poignant interview, King articulated her internal conflict. She acknowledged that many victims never see their assailants brought to justice, prompting her to ‘big up’ the legal system, the police, and her legal team. However, she initially hoped for a sentence closer to 30 years, a figure she correlates with the staggering number of surgical interventions required for her recovery. A critical upcoming surgery on her neck, which connects to her chest plate, underscores the ongoing, severe medical challenges she faces.

    Beyond the sentence length, King’s concerns extend to her future safety, contemplating what might happen when Grey is eventually released. She is now determined to focus on living her best life in the coming 12 years while grappling with these anxieties.

    In contrast, her stepmother, Julia Mendez, expressed a sense of relief and closure, believing that justice was served and attributing the outcome to divine will. She emphasized that the conclusion of the legal battle allows King to finally move forward with her life.

  • Second chance without compromise

    Second chance without compromise

    Jamaica’s Senate has enacted significant reforms to the Criminal Records (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act, marking a pivotal shift in the nation’s justice approach by expanding eligibility for criminal record expungement. Government senators unanimously emphasized that these amendments constitute a strategic component of a balanced anti-crime framework rather than indicating softened enforcement policies.

    The revised legislation empowers the Criminal Records Board to evaluate applications from individuals who served prison terms exceeding five years but not surpassing ten years. Adult offenders must complete a 15-year rehabilitation period before applying, while those under 18 at conviction qualify after eight years. The amendments establish comprehensive evaluation criteria including offense severity, demonstrated rehabilitation, participation in reintegration programs, expressions of remorse, and potential impacts on public safety and international obligations.

    Government Senator Abka Fitz-Henley articulated the administration’s position during parliamentary debates, stating: “This Administration is not coy about applying draconian legislation when appropriate to address social ills. However, this legislation recognizes our holistic, multi-pronged approach to societal violence—including encouraging offenders who have genuinely turned their lives around.” He highlighted alignment with international standards, referencing the UK’s spent convictions law, North American record suspension systems, and Oceania’s Clean Slate Act.

    The legislative changes received cross-bench support, with Opposition Senator Donna Scott-Mottley affirming that “compassion and accountability are not mutually exclusive.” She noted the reforms particularly benefit impoverished and marginalized Jamaicans who have completed their sentences but remain hampered by past convictions. However, she cautioned that implementation efficiency would determine the law’s ultimate effectiveness, citing historical bureaucratic delays in expungement processing.

    Government Senator Charles Sinclair Jr advocated for complementary prison system reforms, proposing structured work-and-earn programs to help inmates offset personal expenses, compensate victims, and support families. He emphasized that such initiatives would preserve dignity and reduce recidivism among those serving extended sentences.

    All parties concurred that successful implementation requires adequate resourcing of administrative systems and continued parliamentary oversight to ensure the legislation delivers tangible relief rather than becoming mired in procedural obstacles.

  • It’s not automatic

    It’s not automatic

    The Jamaican Senate has approved significant amendments to the Criminal Records (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act, establishing a rigorous two-tier evaluation system for expungement applications. Government Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon emphasized during Friday’s parliamentary session that overseas expungements won’t automatically transfer to Jamaican records, addressing concerns about international justice system disparities.

    The legislative framework mandates case-by-case assessments rather than blanket approvals. The revamped procedure requires offenders to first complete prescribed rehabilitation periods before their convictions become ‘spent.’ Subsequently, applicants must demonstrate genuine rehabilitation to the Criminal Records Board, which evaluates potential impacts on justice administration and national security.

    Notably, the amendments expand the Board’s jurisdiction to consider offenses carrying sentences between five and ten years—previously automatically disqualified. This change responds to documented cases where non-egregious crimes received mandatory sentences exceeding the prior threshold. Rehabilitation periods consequently extend from 10 to 12 years for adults and from 5 to 8 years for minors.

    The legislation introduces standardized evaluation criteria including psychological assessments, social enquiry reports, restorative justice participation, and remorse demonstration. To handle anticipated application increases, the Board will expand from five to seven-nine members. Senator Morris Dixon confirmed planned public education campaigns to manage expectations about the amended process’s selective nature.