Bench Warrants Issued Following Traffic Court Convictions

On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, the Basseterre Magistrate Court, under the authority of Her Honour Rhonda Nisbett-Browne, addressed a series of traffic violation cases, resulting in convictions, withdrawn charges, adjournments, and the issuance of bench warrants. Jahsef Leader of St. Paul’s faced two charges stemming from incidents on September 16, 2023. Pleading guilty without legal representation, Leader was fined $400 for driving without a seatbelt, with a 7-day prison sentence as the alternative if the fine remained unpaid within 14 days. A separate charge for failing to produce a driver’s license immediately resulted in a $100 fine, with a one-month imprisonment as the default penalty if not paid within the same 14-day timeframe. This case highlights the court’s commitment to enforcing seatbelt regulations and ensuring drivers possess valid documentation.

The court proceedings also saw a significant number of cases resolved through various means. Eighteen individuals had their ticket cases withdrawn after providing proof of fine payment, demonstrating the effectiveness of the ticketing system in prompting compliance with traffic laws. This resolution allows the court to focus its resources on more complex cases, such as those involving repeat offenders or more serious violations. Another 23 cases were adjourned to August 25, 2025, likely due to the need for further investigation, witness testimony, or legal representation arrangements. This adjournment suggests a dedication to ensuring due process and providing adequate time for all parties involved to prepare their cases.

The court’s authority was further underscored by the issuance of five bench warrants for individuals who failed to appear for their scheduled court dates. These warrants were issued for Shelise Williams of Verchilds, Yusuf Saunders of Newtown, Kevin Williams of Wades Garden, Calvin Belle of Sandy Point, and Jack Crawford-Knotts of Tabernacle. This action demonstrates the court’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for their legal obligations and emphasizing the seriousness of ignoring court summonses. The issuance of warrants serves as a deterrent to future non-appearances and underscores the importance of respecting the judicial process.

The Traffic Department’s statement reinforces its dedication to upholding road safety and enforcing traffic regulations. Their commitment to holding drivers accountable for their actions is evident in the pursuit of these cases and the resulting convictions, fines, and warrants. By publicizing these outcomes, the department aims to deter future violations and encourage responsible driving behavior. This proactive approach, combining enforcement with public awareness, is crucial in fostering a culture of road safety and reducing the incidence of traffic-related incidents.

The court’s actions, combined with the Traffic Department’s statement, demonstrate a multi-pronged approach to addressing traffic violations in the jurisdiction. From imposing fines and issuing warrants to allowing for adjournments and recognizing proof of payment, the system aims to be both firm and fair. This balanced approach ensures that appropriate penalties are applied while also acknowledging the importance of due process and providing opportunities for individuals to rectify their violations.

Overall, the court proceedings and the subsequent actions taken by the Traffic Department highlight the ongoing efforts to improve road safety and maintain order on the roadways. The imposition of penalties, the recognition of compliance, and the pursuit of those who fail to appear in court all contribute to creating a safer and more accountable driving environment. The message is clear: traffic laws are to be respected, and the consequences for non-compliance can be significant. This continuous effort to enforce traffic regulations and hold drivers accountable ultimately benefits the entire community by fostering a safer and more responsible driving culture.