Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Jolyan Silvera murder trial remains private

    Jolyan Silvera murder trial remains private

    The high-profile murder trial of former Jamaican opposition party parliamentarian Jolyan Silvera will commence on February 2nd under strict privacy provisions that will exclude both media and public from proceedings. Silvera faces charges for the 2023 firearm-related murder of his wife, Melissa Silvera, with the case falling under specialized Gun Court jurisdiction that mandates in-camera hearings.

    Chief Justice Bryan Sykes, presiding over the case, clarified that while he personally doesn’t object to journalistic presence, the final decision rests with legal representatives from both sides. “If the lawyers agree, then we can come to some accommodation,” Justice Sykes stated during Monday’s proceedings, “but for the time being it is what it is.”

    The privacy measures derive from Sections 13(1) and 13(2) of Jamaica’s Gun Court Act of 1974, which permits exclusion of the public and restricts trial reporting in interests of public safety and order. These provisions have governed firearm-related cases for five decades, allowing only court personnel, legal representatives, and specifically authorized individuals to attend proceedings.

    The case involves grim details surrounding the November 2023 death of Melissa Silvera, initially reported as natural causes until autopsy revealed three bullet fragments inside the body of the 42-year-old chemical engineering graduate and petroleum company CEO. The mother of four boys—one deceased before her—was found dead in the couple’s Stony Hill residence.

    Silvera, appearing noticeably slimmer and well-groomed in tailored clothing during Monday’s hearing, has been in custody since his January 2024 arrest. The former People’s National Party representative is defended by attorneys Peter Champagnie King’s Counsel and Patrice Riley, while prosecutors Dwayne Green and Latoya Bernard represent the state.

    Jamaica’s Gun Court operates through three specialized divisions: the High Court Division for most firearm offenses (judge-only trials), Circuit Court Division for serious crimes like murder with firearms (jury trials), and Resident Magistrate’s Division for preliminary inquiries—all typically conducted privately.

  • JCF announces leadership changes

    JCF announces leadership changes

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant organizational restructuring, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) high command has executed comprehensive reassignments affecting numerous senior officers across multiple divisions and specialized units. The strategic realignment involves several Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) and Superintendents, marking one of the most substantial command changes in recent times.

    Under the new deployment structure, ACP Christopher Phillips, previously Commander of the Area Five Division, has been transferred to lead the Area Three Division. His former position will be filled by ACP Howard Chambers, who relinquishes his role overseeing specialized operations. Simultaneously, ACP Calvin Allen, the outgoing Area Three Division commander, assumes responsibility for specialized operations.

    Further changes see ACP Gary McKenzie transitioning from his leadership role at the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch (PSTEB) to take charge of the strategic operations portfolio. Superintendent Micheal Campbell, formerly Commanding Officer for the St Thomas Division, will now head the PSTEB.

    The reshuffle extends to divisional leadership with Superintendent Rohan Ritchie, previously in command of the Kingston Central Division, taking over the St Thomas Division. Superintendent Mishka Forbes moves from strategic operations to assume control of the Kingston Central Division.

    Additionally, the reorganization affects sixteen Deputy Superintendents and one Assistant Superintendent, who have been transferred to various sections and formations within the force. These strategic reassignments are scheduled to take effect on January 21, representing a comprehensive repositioning of leadership assets within Jamaica’s law enforcement infrastructure.

  • TruFun Play opens in Drax Hall, expanding family recreation in St Ann

    TruFun Play opens in Drax Hall, expanding family recreation in St Ann

    ST ANN, Jamaica — A transformative family recreation venture has emerged in Drax Hall with the inaugural launch of TruFun Play, establishing a pioneering indoor play facility that addresses longstanding developmental needs for children in the Ocho Rios region. This strategically designed center represents a significant advancement in community infrastructure, providing structured recreational programming previously unavailable in St Ann’s family service landscape.

    Spearheaded by Kimona Myrie, an entrepreneurial mother who relocated from Lucea four years ago, the facility embodies a dual commitment to family welfare and business innovation. Myrie’s personal journey inspired the venture, which originated from her frustration with inadequate play spaces for her daughter and other children throughout parish communities.

    TruFun Play’s operational framework serves children aged 1-14 through a meticulously curated environment prioritizing safety, supervision, and developmental enrichment. The facility accommodates up to 80 children hourly across multiple activity zones featuring ball pits, trampolines, slides, and obstacle courses. Beyond recreational offerings, the center provides nutritional services, birthday celebration hosting, and educational programs including Saturday enrichment classes in self-defense, karate, and cultural arts.

    The business model integrates comprehensive after-school care alongside recreational services, creating a holistic approach to child development. Myrie’s substantial personal investment encompassed equipment procurement, safety system implementation, and staff training, supplemented by support from family networks, church communities, and early vision advocates.

    This enterprise transcends conventional business parameters by embedding community partnership and local entrepreneurship within its operational DNA. By positioning children and families at the core of community development, TruFun Play establishes a paradigm for socially conscious business investment in Jamaica’s parish infrastructure, demonstrating how recreational facilities can catalyze broader regional development while meeting critical childhood needs.

  • Reputed gang leader ‘Bloodstain’ nabbed by St Catherine police

    Reputed gang leader ‘Bloodstain’ nabbed by St Catherine police

    Jamaican law enforcement authorities have apprehended a high-profile criminal suspect during a targeted operation in St. Catherine on Monday. Courtney Ashley, widely known by his alias “Bloodstain,” was taken into custody by the St. Catherine South police division in the gated community of Phoenix Park, Portmore.

    Ashley, identified as the alleged leader of the Bottom Marverly Gang, had been the subject of an extensive manhunt for multiple violent crimes. The suspect also maintains reported affiliations with the Yacca Avenue and 440 Drive criminal networks, according to police intelligence.

    The capture concludes a prolonged search for Ashley, who had been prominently featured in the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s “Wanted Wednesdays” public awareness campaign. Law enforcement officials had sought Ashley in connection with the 2017 homicide of Andrew Foster and the non-fatal shooting of another individual on Fenbrook Avenue in St. Andrew.

    Police authorities have additionally named Ashley as a person of interest in several ongoing investigations, including a recent double homicide case within the St. Andrew South Division. The operation represents a significant achievement for Jamaican law enforcement in their ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and gang-related violence in the region.

  • 10 shelters still open in St Elizabeth

    10 shelters still open in St Elizabeth

    Nearly three months after Hurricane Melissa devastated the region, St Elizabeth Parish continues to grapple with a significant humanitarian situation as ten emergency shelters remain operational, housing approximately 72 displaced residents. The update came from Acting Parish Disaster Coordinator Rasha Lloyd during the January 12 meeting of the Disaster Preparedness, Hazard Mitigation & Safety Committee in Santa Cruz.

    Among the active shelters, two educational institutions—Maggotty High School and Ginger Hill Primary School—continue to serve as temporary housing facilities. Remarkably, Maggotty High School has successfully maintained dual operations since November, functioning simultaneously as both a shelter and an active educational institution without disrupting academic activities.

    The situation differs at Ginger Hill Primary School, where severe storm damage has prevented the reopening of classes. Officials project the institution will resume normal operations during the final week of January following necessary repairs.

    Lloyd detailed the government’s multi-faceted approach to resolving the shelter crisis, emphasizing collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development. “We’re exploring alternative housing solutions, including family reunification and rental assistance programs where the Government would subsidize accommodation costs,” Lloyd explained. “Additionally, we’re working to provide building materials for reconstruction, as many displaced residents previously occupied board dwellings that were completely destroyed by the hurricane.”

    The ongoing shelter reinspection process, initiated in December, has been temporarily suspended throughout January to accommodate Earthquake Awareness Month activities. Coordination with the Jamaica Fire Brigade is currently underway to implement educational programs in schools throughout the month. Official shelter reassessments are scheduled to resume in February.

  • Man found on Worthing Beach identified

    Man found on Worthing Beach identified

    Barbados law enforcement authorities have officially identified the victim of a fatal shooting on Worthing Beach as 52-year-old Andre Brian Parris, previously residing at Fairholme Gardens in Maxwell, Christ Church. The incident occurred on Friday evening when police response units were dispatched to the coastal area following reports of gunfire.

    According to official police communications, Operations Control Room personnel received an emergency alert approximately at 7:37 p.m. regarding audible gunshots in the Worthing district. Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered Parris in an unresponsive state lying on the beachfront. Immediate medical attention was requested, however, a attending physician subsequently confirmed Parris’s demise at the location.

    The Barbados Police Service has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting death. Forensic specialists and crime scene investigators are currently examining evidence collected from the beach area while detectives pursue multiple lines of inquiry.

    Law enforcement officials are urgently seeking public assistance regarding this case. They have issued a formal appeal for any individuals who might have witnessed the incident or possess relevant information to come forward. Confidential tips can be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, the Police Emergency hotline at 211, or directly to the Hastings/Worthing Police Station at 430-7614 or 430-7615. All information sources will be treated with strict confidentiality as investigators work to reconstruct the events leading to this tragic death.

  • Turning unemployment into opportunity: A coconut seller’s journey

    Turning unemployment into opportunity: A coconut seller’s journey

    In the tropical climate of Saint Lucia’s Rodney Bay, Wendell Dupre has demonstrated remarkable resilience by transforming unemployment into entrepreneurial success. This Castries native, once employed in the hospitality sector, found opportunity in adversity when his previous workplace declared bankruptcy several years ago.

    Leveraging previously underutilized resources from his father’s agricultural property, Dupre established a thriving coconut enterprise that has defied conventional business challenges. Rather than allowing the farm’s produce to go to waste, he recognized the commercial potential in the island’s abundant coconut supply and built a sustainable business model around it.

    Through strategic reinvestment and organic growth, Dupre achieved a significant milestone by acquiring his first vehicle through self-financing, completely bypassing traditional banking loans. His business expansion plans include additional vehicle investments and job creation as operations scale upward. Currently, he operates with crucial support from his partner, who provides both administrative assistance and moral encouragement.

    Market dynamics for Dupre’s venture show fascinating patterns tied to environmental conditions. Sales volume demonstrates direct correlation with temperature fluctuations, with increased demand for refreshing coconut water during peak heat periods. The business particularly benefits from tourist patronage, many of whom experience fresh coconut products for the first time while visiting the Caribbean island.

    Maintaining a six-day work schedule with Sundays reserved for family time, especially with his daughter, Dupre exemplifies the balance between entrepreneurial dedication and personal priorities. When questioned about his long-term commitment to this trade, he affirmed his preference for self-directed work over traditional employment, highlighting the autonomy and satisfaction derived from entrepreneurship.

  • Seven Homes Repainted in Swetes Under Community Initiative

    Seven Homes Repainted in Swetes Under Community Initiative

    A grassroots revitalization project has brought vibrant transformation to seven residences in Swetes this week, demonstrating the powerful impact of community collaboration. This initiative, which began as a singular effort to construct a home for Arlene Wilson, evolved into a broader campaign after overwhelming support from local residents inspired organizers to expand their mission.

    The project’s coordinators strategically selected uplifting color palettes to enhance the visual appeal of the neighborhood dwellings. The endeavor received substantial material support from contributors Rawdon Turner, Mary Baltimore, and Lamin Newton, who provided all necessary paints and supplies. Execution of the painting work was handled by the skilled A Team from His Majesty’s Prison, whose exceptional craftsmanship received particular recognition for the high-quality finished results.

    Operating under the banner of the Home Advancement Programme for the Poor and Indigent (HAPI), this initiative exemplifies how cooperative action can effectively improve living conditions while simultaneously restoring community pride. Program organizers have confirmed that following this successful pilot in Swetes, similar home improvement projects will be extended to additional villages throughout Antigua and Barbuda, creating a ripple effect of positive community development across the nation.

  • Antiguans Among Graduates at UWI Global Campus 2025 Ceremony

    Antiguans Among Graduates at UWI Global Campus 2025 Ceremony

    The University of the West Indies Global Campus commemorated its 2025 graduation ceremony with hundreds of students from across the Caribbean region, including numerous scholars from Antigua and Barbuda, successfully completing diverse academic programs. These graduates achieved qualifications spanning multiple disciplines, with exceptional performance demonstrated through first-class honors and distinctions in fields such as education, social sciences, legal studies, tourism and hospitality, and scientific domains.

    During the ceremonial proceedings, Vice-Chancellor Sir Hilary Beckles addressed the graduating cohort, characterizing the Class of 2025 as a generation forged through extraordinary resilience. He emphasized that these scholars accomplished their educational objectives while navigating significant challenges including destructive hurricanes, the persistent COVID-19 pandemic, and considerable economic instability. Beckles articulated that graduates are entering a global landscape characterized by climate emergencies, social inequality, and geopolitical tensions, yet possess the necessary capabilities to drive innovation and leadership throughout the Caribbean region.

    “Your presence here represents no accidental occurrence but rather the culmination of immense sacrifice, unwavering resilience, and countless hours of dedicated study amidst periods of uncertainty,” Beckles stated. He compellingly urged graduates to embrace their roles as architects and builders of a transformed Caribbean future defined by innovative solutions rather than constrained by limitations.

    The Vice-Chancellor particularly highlighted the capacity of small island communities, including those in Antigua, Jamaica, and Barbados, to serve as incubators for globally significant solutions. The ceremony additionally honored Sir Calix George of St Lucia with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of his contributions, while valedictorian Alex Anderson praised the Global Campus’s flexible educational model that enables students to balance academic pursuits with professional and personal responsibilities.

    Graduates were formally inducted into the UWI alumni network and encouraged to maintain institutional connections as they advance into their professional careers, carrying forward what Beckles described as their unique narrative, societal responsibility, and transformative hope throughout Caribbean communities.

  • HAPI hands over refurbished homes to families in Swetes and Hatton

    HAPI hands over refurbished homes to families in Swetes and Hatton

    In a significant stride toward poverty alleviation, Antigua’s Home Assisted Programme for the Indigent (HAPI) has successfully handed over fully renovated homes to two families in Swetes and Hatten. The initiative, which focuses on improving living conditions for vulnerable residents, provided these refurbishments at absolutely no cost to the homeowners.

    Social and Urban Improvement Minister Rawdon Turner personally oversaw the handover ceremonies for Arlene Wilson and her 15-member family in Swetes, and Shamara Thomas and her nine-member household in Hatten. The renovation work was expertly executed by construction teams from National Housing, demonstrating the government’s commitment to practical solutions for housing challenges.

    Minister Turner emphasized the program’s non-partisan nature, stating: ‘HAPI operates without regard to political affiliation or racial background. Our singular mission remains helping citizens escape poverty through improved living conditions.’ He revealed that the program has already enhanced over 100 homes since its inception, with recent arrivals of construction materials enabling simultaneous multiple upgrades across different locations.

    The minister addressed criticism from opposition figures, characterizing attempts to discourage participation in HAPI as ‘deeply unfortunate.’ He pointed to dramatic before-and-after photographs as undeniable evidence of the program’s transformative impact. ‘Today marked a emotional milestone as we helped two families escape deplorable conditions,’ Turner noted, referencing one homeowner’s tearful reaction upon receiving her refurbished property keys.

    Mary Baltimore, Coordinator of the Social Protection Board, working alongside HAPI coordinator Inspector Veldon Ragguette, described the dual home presentations in a single day as a landmark achievement for both the benefiting families and the implementing agencies.