Treval Hodge Faces Multiple Criminal Charges

The events surrounding the arrest and subsequent charging of Treval Hodge unfolded over a period of two days, commencing with a seemingly routine baggage check at the Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport on December 23, 2024, and culminating in the filing of six charges against him on December 28, 2024. The incident involved a collaborative effort between the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) and His Majesty’s Customs and Excise Department, highlighting the integrated approach to combating drug-related offenses within the federation. The initial discovery of the suspected contraband prompted a swift response from law enforcement, leading to Mr. Hodge’s immediate apprehension and the seizure of the illicit substance. This case underscores the vigilance of Customs officials in detecting illegal imports, even within the seemingly mundane process of routine baggage checks.

The incident began with a report received by the RSCNPF’s Anti-Narcotics Unit at the Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport between 6 PM and 7 PM on December 23, 2024. The report pertained to a discovery made during a routine inspection of delayed baggage being claimed by Mr. Hodge, a resident of Haynes Smith Village, St. Kitts. Customs officers, in the course of their standard procedures, uncovered three packages containing a green vegetable matter suspected to be cannabis. This discovery immediately raised red flags, prompting the officers to detain Mr. Hodge and seize the suspicious packages. The swift action of the Customs officers effectively prevented the suspected cannabis from entering the general circulation within the federation.

Following the initial discovery and detention of Mr. Hodge, the suspected cannabis underwent testing to confirm its identity. The subsequent confirmation validated the initial suspicions of the Customs officers, establishing the substance as indeed cannabis. This confirmation solidified the grounds for legal action against Mr. Hodge, leading to formal charges being laid against him. The diligence of the investigative process ensured that the evidence was properly verified, strengthening the case against the accused.

On December 24, 2024, one day after his arrest, Treval Hodge faced two charges from the RSCNPF: possession of cannabis with intent to supply and importation of cannabis. These charges reflect the severity of the alleged offense, indicating that authorities suspect Mr. Hodge was not simply a user but intended to distribute the cannabis within the federation. The charge of importation highlights the transnational aspect of the crime, emphasizing the potential impact on the security and well-being of the nation. The collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies ensured a comprehensive approach to addressing the alleged crime, tackling both the possession and the importation aspects of the case.

In addition to the charges filed by the RSCNPF, His Majesty’s Customs and Excise Department brought four further charges against Mr. Hodge. These charges included submitting a false declaration to a Customs officer, importation of restricted goods (specifically cannabis sativa), importation of a quantity of cannabis sativa, and knowingly attempting to fraudulently evade Customs. These additional charges further underscored the gravity of the alleged offenses, indicating a deliberate attempt to deceive authorities and circumvent established import regulations. The Customs Department’s charges specifically address the violation of customs procedures and regulations, highlighting the importance of maintaining the integrity of border security.

The totality of six charges filed against Treval Hodge – two by the RSCNPF and four by the Customs Department – paints a picture of a serious alleged offense with potential ramifications for both the individual and the federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. The charges, filed at the Basseterre Police Station on December 28, 2024, will now proceed through the legal system, allowing Mr. Hodge the opportunity to present his defense and the courts to determine the outcome of the case. The collaborative effort between the RSCNPF and His Majesty’s Customs and Excise Department exemplifies a coordinated approach to enforcing the law and safeguarding the community against illegal drug activities. The outcome of this case will serve as a reminder of the consequences of engaging in such illegal activities.