Traffic Court Convictions at Basseterre Magistrate Court

The Basseterre Magistrate Court held traffic court proceedings from May 26th to 29th, 2025, presided over by Her Honour Yasmine Clarke, Her Honour Rhonda Nisbett-Browne, and Her Honour Sherry-Ann Liburd Charles. Several individuals faced charges for various traffic-related offenses, resulting in convictions and penalties. The court addressed a range of violations, reflecting the ongoing efforts of the Traffic Department to maintain road safety and enforce traffic regulations within the Federation of St. Christopher and Nevis.

On May 26th, Shaquille Adams of Gardens Housing pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention, an offense committed on September 6th, 2024. The court imposed a fine of $1,500.00, payable within three months, with a default sentence of one month imprisonment. Also on the 26th, Jenell Chalemon, a St. Martin resident staying at New Road, pleaded guilty to multiple offenses committed on May 24th, 2025. These included driving without insurance, driving without a valid and unexpired license, and driving an unlicensed vehicle. Chalemon received fines of $800.00, $1,000.00, and $250.00 respectively, each payable within seven days. Default sentences for these offenses were one month and fourteen days imprisonment, respectively. An additional charge against Chalemon for taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent was withdrawn.

The court proceedings continued on May 27th, addressing two cases of driving without due care and attention. Trevis Osbourne of Upper Cayon pleaded guilty to the offense committed on September 8th, 2024, and received a fine of $800.00 payable within three months, or one month imprisonment. Zareke Johnson of Buckleys also pleaded guilty to the same offense, committed on November 26th, 2024. Johnson received a slightly higher fine of $1,000.00, also payable within three months or face one month imprisonment.

On May 29th, the court heard two more cases related to driving without due care and attention. Leshona Davis of Parry’s Housing pleaded guilty to the offense, committed on August 9th, 2024. She was fined $750.00, payable within three months, with a default sentence of fourteen days imprisonment. Wentford Rogers of Mattingley Heights also pleaded guilty to the same offense, committed on the same date as Davis, August 9th, 2024. However, Rogers received a caution rather than a fine or imprisonment. The variation in penalties highlights the court’s consideration of individual circumstances in each case.

These cases demonstrate the range of penalties that can be imposed for traffic violations, from fines to imprisonment. The court’s decisionsunderscore the importance of adhering to traffic laws and exercising due care and attention while driving. The varying fines and default imprisonment terms likely reflect the specific circumstances of each case, potentially including the severity of the driving infraction and the defendant’s driving history.

The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force, through its Traffic Department, emphasized its ongoing commitment to road safety and the enforcement of traffic regulations. Their statement serves as a public reminder to all motorists to prioritize safe driving practices and comply with traffic laws to prevent accidents and maintain order on the roads. The emphasis on compliance reinforces the message that responsible driving is crucial for the safety and well-being of all road users. The police force’s active role in enforcing these laws aims to deter unsafe driving practices and create a safer environment for everyone.