Traffic Court Convictions at Basseterre Magistrate Court

The Basseterre Magistrate Court, presided over by Her Honour Yasmine Clarke, convened on March 10 and March 18, 2025, to address a series of traffic violations brought forth by Inspector Gordon and officers of the Traffic Department. These sessions resulted in several convictions and sentences, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enforce traffic regulations and maintain road safety within the jurisdiction. The court proceedings underscored the importance of adhering to traffic laws, emphasizing the consequences for non-compliance.

The March 10 session saw convictions for a range of offences. Gleneva Wilson of Lodge faced penalties for failing to produce a driver’s license and operating an unlicensed vehicle, both infractions occurring on September 2, 2024. Wilson received a fine of $200 for each offence, payable within two weeks, with a default sentence of seven days imprisonment for non-payment. Tylo Williams of West Farm was also sanctioned for driving without a seatbelt and operating a vehicle without a valid and unexpired license, both violations dating back to July 16, 2022. Williams was fined $200 for each offence, with a one-week payment deadline and a seven-day imprisonment default. Giron Hanley of Lamberts received a more substantial fine of $850 for driving without due care and attention on May 6, 2024, with a payment window of one month and a default sentence of one month imprisonment. In addition to these individual cases, the court addressed a significant volume of ticket matters, with thirty cases withdrawn due to prior fine payments and nine cases adjourned for further proceedings.

The subsequent court session on March 18, 2025, continued the adjudication of traffic offences. Kevanne Thomas of Cayon, despite pleading not guilty, was convicted of driving without due care and attention on August 2, 2023, and fined $1,500. Thomas was granted three months to pay the fine, with a default sentence of one month imprisonment. Clarence Hendrickson of Boyd’s Project, also pleading not guilty, was convicted of driving without due care and attention on June 16, 2024, but received a caution rather than a fine. Similar to the previous session, a number of ticket matters were resolved, with eleven withdrawn due to paid fines and nine adjourned to April 13, 2025.

The reported convictions and sentences illustrate the range of traffic offences addressed by the Basseterre Magistrate Court, from administrative infractions like failing to produce a license to more serious matters involving driving without due care and attention. The consistent application of fines, along with the potential for imprisonment for non-payment, underscores the seriousness with which these offences are treated within the legal system. The varying payment deadlines and amounts reflect the court’s consideration of the specific circumstances of each case, while the option of imprisonment serves as a deterrent and ensures compliance with court orders.

The withdrawal of a significant number of ticket matters due to prior fine payments demonstrates the effectiveness of the ticketing system in encouraging prompt resolution of less serious offences. The adjournment of several cases indicates the court’s commitment to due process, allowing time for further investigation, plea negotiations, or the gathering of necessary evidence. The court’s actions reflect a balanced approach, combining efficient processing of straightforward cases with careful consideration of more complex or contested matters.

The Traffic Department’s concluding statement reinforces the importance of adhering to traffic laws and regulations. By emphasizing the link between compliance and road safety, the department underscores its proactive stance in promoting responsible driving behavior and protecting all road users. The court proceedings and the department’s message serve as a reminder to the public of the shared responsibility in maintaining safe roadways and minimizing the risk of accidents. The continued enforcement of traffic laws and the consistent application of appropriate sanctions are essential for deterring future violations and fostering a culture of responsible driving within the community.