标签： Antigua and Barbuda

Delon Charlery, a St Lucian national, is scheduled to be sentenced on 17 October for the murder of Customs Officer Zorina Benjamin in 2021. The case took a significant turn when Charlery changed his plea after compelling audio evidence surfaced, capturing a heated argument between him and Benjamin, culminating in a gunshot. Benjamin was tragically shot in the head at her residence in Golden Grove on 22 November 2021. The sentencing process was previously delayed to allow a probation officer to finalize a comprehensive report, which included interviews with witnesses and Charlery himself. The court will now review this report before issuing the final sentence. This case has drawn considerable attention due to the nature of the crime and the evidence presented, highlighting the judicial process in addressing such grave offenses.

Delano Forbes, the man accused of murdering four individuals in a series of incidents dating back to 2017, is scheduled to appear in court on October 27. The trial has been delayed multiple times, most recently due to Forbes’ deteriorating health. His legal team has reported that he has been experiencing fainting episodes and requires urgent medical attention, including an assessment for potential surgery related to ear tissue damage. Sherfield Bowen, Forbes’ lawyer, confirmed that arrangements are being made with prison authorities to ensure he receives the necessary care. The trial was initially set for July but has faced repeated postponements, underscoring the complexities of advancing the case. No further details have been disclosed regarding the new trial date or how Forbes’ medical condition might impact the proceedings. The case continues to draw significant attention, with the public and legal community closely monitoring developments.

Karim Warner, a former police officer, has been sentenced to one year in prison for discharging a firearm in a public place. The verdict was delivered by Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel, following Warner’s conviction for the incident that took place on December 3, 2022, near Emerald Cove Resort in Willikies. Warner was found guilty of firing 12 rounds at a white Toyota Mark X, which had two occupants inside. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The case has garnered significant attention due to Warner’s prior role in law enforcement and the inherent risks associated with the public discharge of firearms. Magistrate Emanuel underscored the gravity of the offense, highlighting the potential threat to public safety. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities entrusted to law enforcement personnel and the consequences of their actions when those responsibilities are breached.

The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has launched a manhunt for an individual suspected of breaking into a clothing store on Market Street in St. John’s. The incident, which occurred between Wednesday and Thursday of this week, involved the theft of an undisclosed sum of money, iPhones, Samsung tablets, and shoes. Authorities have since recovered several of the stolen items, which are now being held at the police station for further investigation. The public is being urged to refrain from purchasing any suspected stolen goods, as doing so constitutes a criminal offense. Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) at 462-3913/14 or Crime Stoppers at 800-TIPS (8477). The police have emphasized the importance of community cooperation in solving this case and ensuring justice is served.

In a significant crackdown on illegal drug trafficking, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, in collaboration with Customs Enforcement, seized over 13 pounds of cannabis at the Deep Water Harbor on October 2, 2025. The operation, conducted by the Narcotics Department and the K-9 Unit, led to the discovery of 14 vacuum-sealed packages concealed in a brown cardboard box within the Custom Cargo Shed. The confiscated drugs, with an estimated street value of $81,000, were transported to Police Headquarters for further investigation. Authorities praised the joint efforts of the agencies involved and urged the public to continue supporting their fight against illegal drug trade. This seizure underscores the ongoing challenges and successes in combating narcotics trafficking in the region.

In a historic move, Sarah Mullally has been appointed as the new Archbishop of Canterbury, becoming the first woman to hold the position in its 1,400-year history. The 63-year-old, who previously served as the Bishop of London, will now lead the global Anglican Communion, comprising 85 million members. Mullally’s appointment marks a significant milestone for the Church of England, which has been grappling with declining relevance in an increasingly secular society. Her diverse background, including a distinguished career as a nurse and Chief Nursing Officer for England, brings a unique perspective to her new role. Mullally’s leadership will be tested as she navigates internal divisions between conservative and liberal factions, addresses the fallout from past safeguarding failures, and works to rebuild trust within the church. Her appointment, made possible by reforms introduced by her predecessor Justin Welby, has been met with mixed reactions, particularly from conservative Anglican groups in Africa and Asia. Mullally has pledged to prioritize listening to survivors of abuse, caring for the vulnerable, and fostering a culture of safety and wellbeing. She will officially assume her role in March 2026, succeeding Welby, who resigned amid controversy over his handling of a child abuse scandal. As the spiritual leader of the Anglican Communion, Mullally will also face the challenge of reversing declining church attendance and addressing financial pressures. Her appointment reflects a broader shift within the Church of England toward inclusivity and modernization, though it remains to be seen how she will bridge the growing divide between the church’s liberal and conservative wings.