Connect with us

News

TCI – Legal Briefs

Published

on

Wilkie Arthur

Freelance Court Reporter

 

#TurksandCaicos, November 9, 2023 

 

MAN FACING SEVEN YEAR for ILLEGAL GUN

In the Grand Turk Supreme Court being tried by His Lordship Mr. Justice Chris Selochan and a Jury for an ILLEGAL firearm and 12 rounds of 9mm ammunition is JEAN ETIENNE DOR, 38.

This trial has been ongoing for the past two weeks and could possibly run into its third week before conclusion.

The allegations date back to a police operation on Monday 25th April, 2022.  The accused has been in custody since that time.

According to TCI law, Dor can be sentence to no less than seven years if convicted.

Representing the Crown is Public Prosecutor, Tassja Mitchell and Lara Maroof-Misick for the accused.

 

HAITIAN MAN CHARGED FOR SEX WITH GIRL UNDER 12

A Judge alone trial is underway in a child sexual assault case.  Charges are against Haitian man, Fenel Charitible, who is represented by Finbar Grant.

The matter, at the Grand Turk Supreme Court is before his Lordship, Justice Davidson Kervin Baptiste.

The sexual allegation of the under 12 years old girl dates to sometime in 2020.

Handling the case for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is Enjaleek Dickenson.

 

DEFENDANT IN PROVO SUPREME COURT FOR STABBING IN NECK AND HEAD

A very serious wounding trial is ongoing against TERINE HARVEY aka “TC” at the Providenciales Supremer Court.

Harvey is accused of wounding Valman Forbes aka “Val” in the neck and head on the evening of Thursday 16th June, 2022. The defendant is represented by Sheena Mair and the DPP’s office has Nayasha Hatmin prosecuting the wounding matter.

 

MAN ACCUSED OF AZIZA FIRE WILL STAND TRIAL

BERNARD COLEBROOKE was committed to stand trial before Judge and Jury or Judge alone in the Supreme Court for setting fire to a building; namely the popular celebrities’ spot Aziza Restaurant and Lounge in Grace Bay, Providenciales.

The fire causes serious damage to the establishment on  August 31, 2022.

Her Ladyship, Mabel Agyemang, Chief Justice found that there was sufficient evidence to send him to trial.

Colebrooke’s attorney is Mr. Oliver Smith, KC. His matter was moved to plea and direction hearing (PDH) which happened on October 27, 2023.

 

TWO HAITIAN MEN SENTENCED TO MONTHS IN GRAND TURK PRISON

Before the Magistrate’s Court on Monday October 23rd, 2023 two more illegal entry matters were called.

63-year-old farmer, PETER LOUIS was arrested on September 16th, 2023 at South Caicos Dock Port. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to SIX MONTHS imprisonment.

REDINOR BRUNAL, 34 was sentenced to FOUR MONTHS imprisonment for unlawful entry. He was charged that between January 01st and 24th September, 2023 he entered the Turks and Caicos illegally.

He was captured and arrested at Rock Plaza, Blue Hill Road, Providenciales.

He listed his occupation as a farmer.

News

TCI Border Force Hosts Border Security Training for Overseas Territories

Published

on

Turks and Caicos, February 12, 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Border Force recently concluded a series of critical training exercises focused on container targeting, search procedures, and firearms awareness. This initiative, a vital investment in regional security, saw TCI Border Force officers joined by colleagues from the Anguilla Customs Department, BVI Customs Department, and Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control.

The training, conducted from 21st to 31st January, was facilitated by a team from Home Office International Operations through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Border Security Programme and organised via the Integrated Security Funding Overseas Territories Border Security Programme. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of the UK government and participating agencies to combat transnational crime and the flow of illicit goods within the Overseas Territories.

The curriculum encompassed three courses. The first, Fundamentals of Container Targeting (21st-24th January), focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of current priorities and container targeting capabilities, risk analysis within container traffic, and practical exercises utilising intelligence flows. The second, Search of Containers, saw participants receive specialised training on current threats facing the shipping industry and best practices for container search procedures. Finally, a crucial course on Firearms Awareness provided instruction on various types of firearms and the identification of firearm parts, equipping officers with the knowledge necessary to interdict illegal weapons.

These training exercises represent a significant step forward in strengthening the TCI Border Force’s ability to facilitate trade while protecting the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Enhanced targeting and search capabilities will lead to more effective screening of cargo and potentially shorter processing times for legitimate shipments. Greater security will also be evident as the increased focus on firearms awareness will contribute to a safer environment.

“This training is a crucial investment in the safety and security of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” stated Emilio Seymour; Director General of TCI Border Force. “By working collaboratively with our regional partners and leveraging the expertise of the Home Office, we are significantly improving our ability to detect and deter criminal activity. The enhanced skills acquired by our officers will have a direct and positive impact on our community, protecting our economy and ensuring a safer environment for all.”

The TCI Border Force remains committed to protecting the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. This training initiative represents a significant investment in that commitment.

Continue Reading

News

Solar PV Projects Completed at Critical Turks and Caicos Islands Healthcare Facilities

Published

on

Grand Turk Wellness Center

PRESS RELEASE

 

FROM THE Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities

South Caicos

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 11th February 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) have taken a significant step toward a more sustainable energy future with the installation of five (5) solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at key healthcare facilities across the archipelago.

This initiative, funded by the European Union through the Resilience, Sustainable Energy, and Marine Biodiversity Programme (RESEMBID) and implemented by Expertise France, aims to enhance sustainability, reduce operational costs for the TCI Government, and contribute to long-term economic viability.

North Caicos

The solar PV systems have been strategically installed at critical medical facilities, including the Blue Hills Clinic in Providenciales, the Bottle Creek Clinic in North Caicos, the Alsada Hall-Malcolm Primary Healthcare Clinic in Middle Caicos, the South Caicos Primary Health Clinic, and the Wellness Centre in Grand Turk. These healthcare centers provide essential services to local communities, and the integration of solar energy demonstrates TCI’s commitment to environmental responsibility and energy efficiency within vital public sectors.

Leading this transformative initiative is the Energy and Utilities Department (EUD) under the Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities (MPSU). The EUD has overseen the installation and integration of these solar PV systems within the local energy landscape, leveraging the islands’ abundant sunshine which averages approximately 350 sunny days per year — an ideal setting for solar energy generation. These systems, equipped with advanced battery storage solutions, will significantly reduce electricity costs for healthcare facilities while ensuring uninterrupted power supply during grid outages or energy supply challenges.

Middle Caicos

EUD Commissioner Delano R. Arthur emphasized the importance of this initiative: “The solar PV systems will greatly reduce electricity costs and symbolize our shift toward a sustainable energy future. This investment not only strengthens energy security, but reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions and environmental impact.”

The collaboration between the European Union, Expertise France, and local government agencies ensures that the project aligns with international renewable energy standards, benefiting both the environment and the community. Installation was successfully carried out by Green Revolution Ltd., a local company committed to advancing sustainable development in TCI. Their involvement highlights the importance of local expertise and community engagement in executing renewable energy initiatives.

Blue Hills

For further information, please contact:

Energy and Utilities Department (EUD)
Email: eud@gov.tc

Continue Reading

News

SHARK INCIDENT, BLUE HILLS

Published

on

12 February 2025, Providenciales – On Friday 7 February a tourist was injured by a shark in the waters adjacent to Blue Hills, Providenciales.

The individual was taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where she was stabilized and later flown off island for further medical care.

Upon confirmation of the incident the Department of Environment & Coastal Resources (DECR) issued a beach closure notification from Thompson’s Cove Beach to Froggies ATV, Blue Hills in an abundance of caution. The beach was reopened on Sunday, February 9th at 1pm after it was determined that the shark had moved to deeper water.

The shark was estimated to be approximately 6ft in length, however the species is yet to be confirmed.

Further to the investigation, it has been determined that the tourist had attempted to engage with the animal from the shallows in an attempt to take photographs.

The DECR would like to urge the public to always  be aware of your surroundings, follow local advisories, and respect marine life. Swim in designated areas, avoid murky waters, never swim alone, and do not attempt to feed marine wildlife under any circumstances

Continue Reading

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

TRENDING