Reduced Sentence for Haitian Man Convicted of Illegal Firearm Possession

Wilkie Arthur

Freelance Court Correspondent

#TurksandCaicos, May 31, 2024 – Jacquelin Cadet, a 44-year-old Haitian residing in Five Cays, saw a reduction in his sentence after being found guilty of illegally possessing a black .45 caliber firearm and ammunition by a seven-member Grand Turk jury.  The verdict was delivered in the Grand Turk Supreme Court, presided over by His Lordship, The Honorable Mr. Justice Davidson Kevin Baptiste.

Represented by senior defense counsel Mrs. Lara Maroof Misick, Cadet faced prosecution from public prosecutor Ms. Alima Alexis from the office of the Director of Public Prosecution.  The case stemmed from a police raid conducted at Cadet’s home on December 20th, 2022, where officers discovered a black .45 caliber handgun with ammunition hidden in a closet in his bedroom.

During the trial, the Crown argued that Cadet had obtained the firearm for self-protection against local gang activity in 2020. However, there was no evidence to suggest that the firearm had ever been used or brandished.  Cadet was subsequently arrested, charged, and remanded without bail at the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) until his trial.

Following the jury’s guilty verdict, the sentencing hearing took place on May 16th. Justice Baptiste agreed with defense counsel Mrs. Maroof Misick’s argument that a 12-year sentence would be disproportionate given the circumstances of the case. Recognizing exceptional circumstances, the judge exercised his discretion to depart from the mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years imprisonment.

As a result, Cadet was sentenced to a total of 9 years imprisonment and ordered to pay a $10,000 fine.  Counsel for the defendant indicated that an appeal would be forthcoming, signaling a continued legal battle in the case.

The reduction in Cadet’s sentence highlights the nuanced approach taken by the judiciary in evaluating individual cases and considering mitigating factors.  While the severity of the offense warranted punishment, Justice Baptiste’s recognition of exceptional circumstances underscores the importance of fairness and proportionality in sentencing.

As Cadet begins his prison term, the legal proceedings surrounding his case serve as a reminder of the complexities inherent in criminal justice and the ongoing efforts to achieve a balance between accountability and rehabilitation within the system.