Out of a possible 41 years in jail, Webster Edmond will be behind bars for a maximum of 8 years and nine months after he pleaded guilty to charges of kidnapping, unlawful sexual intercourse, possession of ammunition with intent to endanger life and possession of firearm with intent to endanger life.
He also initially faced charges of abduction and indecent assault but these were withdrawn by the prosecution after he pleaded guilty to the other charges.
Reports indicate that Edmond kidnapped a school girl on February 17th, 2011 and kept her in the bush in Clark Hall, Layou for 40 days until he was captured by police on March 28th, 2011.
On the first day of the trial on February 4, 2013, having heard the testimony of the minor, his attorney, Peter Alleyne, requested that the indictments be re-read to him.
Edmond changed his plea to guilty to four of the six charges he originally faced and he pleaded not guilty to abduction and indecent assault.
The State, represented by Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Gene Pestaina, along with State Attorney, Clement Joseph, withdrew the abduction and indecent assault charges, as according to Pestaina, they would attract no further penalties.
During the trial the young girl, who was 15 years old at the time of the incident, spoke about her “traumatic ordeals” and told the court, “I would still see him in my mind while at school and sometimes they remind me of it at school.”
It was also revealed in court that Edmond engaged in sexual intercourse with the child everyday, sometimes twice per day.
In sentencing Edmond on Friday, High Court Judge, Bernie Stephenson, labeled the incident as “the worst crime perpetuated on a young girl in this country.” She also stated that “the aggravating aspects of the case clearly outweighed the mitigating factors.”
Edmond she stated “expressed no remorse for his actions and was more concerned of his deprived liberty.”
Justice Stephenson described his actions as “serious which need a lengthy sentence.”
In his mitigation, Edmond’s lawyer, Peter Alleyne, explained that his client was exposed to physical abuse as a child from his father and was merely trying to assist the young child.
He stated that Edmond was not a pedophile but Justice Stephenson strongly disagreed, stating that child was subject to inhumane conditions and several sexual assaults.
Before sentencing Edmond, she cited several authorities on case law as it relates to the offences.
She also stated that she was concerned about the sexual abuse of young girls, the gravity of the offence, the public’s disapproval and the need to protect women and children against such offences.
On the charge of kidnapping which carries a maximum 7 years in jail, he was sentenced to 4 years with a 20 percent reduction which amounted to three years and two months. For unlawful sexual intercourse, the maximum penalty is 14 years but Edmond was jailed for 7 years with 20 percent reduction which amounted to 5½ years.
The sentences for kidnapping and unlawful sexual intercourse are to run consecutively.
The charge of possession of ammunition with intent to endanger life carries a maximum sentence of 10 years and possession of firearm with intent to endanger life also carries a maximum of 10 years.
But on both charges he received jail sentences for 4 years each with a 20 percent reduction which makes it three years and two months to run concurrently.
So, he has to serve a total of 8 years nine months in jail effective September 2012.
This is not the first time Edmond will be serving time behind bars for breaking the law.
In 2001, he was sentenced to two years and four months in prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
He had also received a five week sentence for possession of marijuana after he pleaded guilty to four charges; possession of 67 grams of Marijuana, and possession of marijuana with intent to supply, the unlawful possession of a firearm, and the unlawful possession of ammunition.
the sentencing is so ridiculous and the judge is doing this on purpose. Deport the judge immediately prime minister…
Justice system in DOMINICAAAAA!!! WHAT ARE YOU ALL DOING MANNN….we all know that people with WAYYYYY more lesser charges get more than that…. this man kidnaps a 15 year old child for a month with a gun an he get 8 yearssss?? 8 FREAKING years??!!! You gots to be kidding me?? An tell me our Dominican justice system ain’t backward…an their worried about is the law of drugs.. When it comes to the real inhuman acts they don’t show the people they have their back… This system need real redoing wii… Man I vex
This is so ridiculous…8 years for such beastiality…shame on Dominica. Is this the country they want me to come back to.
and you know the sad part. those judges would give ppl 10 years plus for theft or drugs. Not to say they don’t deserve those sentence but compare this with that….magwasa
Ah shame on this. I have 2 daughters and on son. And as a woman, I can’t imagine being assaulted sexually. I feel for this young lady.
So he did time before per below from DNO and he only received 8yrs????????????? He should at least get 40 years one day per year for the forty days he kept the young lady.
“This is not the first time Edmond will be serving time behind bars for breaking the law.”
that man will leran a lesson and if i was that judge that man will be amazy.
I agree that everyone is entitled to representation within the court system but what was this lawyer thinking when he mentioned that his client was merely trying to assist the young child…… (how) as well as not being a pedophile….. Fyah!!!!!
I cannot believe what i’m reading there! Kidnapping, rape of a minor and firearm possession, that is serious business, His sentencing is a joke. Dominica need help. I don’t know if is because him occupying the jail cell for too long is a money issue or what !
are we Dominica when our judicial system continues to fail ? i need to know, as a woman myself and mother of a young girl, only God knows!
he has ruined her life forever and is only getting 8yrs and 9 months.SAD
i am sorry to say it ,but i think that child must have say something in court that help them reduce his sentence.although the judge shouldt take it in consideration because she is a child but something was said we pal.they will never tell us because they still have to protect her,
another thing i believe that she had planned to run away with him ,but not for all that time.
The issue in Dominica is thatthere are too many uneducated individuals even the judges. Out of a possible 41yrs one gets 8yrs for kidnapping, unlawful sexual intercourse please.
when they have cocoa mackak to fight court case for them what do you all expect the obeah man will do anything for a dollar too.So he get small sentence and the obeah man get the big cash.
This is so ridiculous I can’t belive this judge is a woman and I hope she dose’nt have daughters even if he the pedophile pleaded guilty that 30 yrs would have been to much please protect our daughters he will do it again
The court system is making fools out of the Policemen who work very hard to bring justice and a judge turns around and give such a criminal a slap on his hand what are you tell MOTHERS and FATHER take matters into your own hands because there is no justice 8yrs for kidnapping and rape that’s it way papa my country what is it coming to
The government should start taking a closer looking at the person;s left to make such decisions.Rediculous
Prime Minister, please get this Judge out of here. That Stephenson dere. You can leave Cottle, but get mamzel out of here. A word to the wise is enough! Right!
It’s so annoying to me. I posted some comments last week and it is taken off. There is so much garbage written and they are posted why was my post taken off. Are we afraid of the truth.
Thats The State Of The System In D/ca Its Disgraceful
Justice Should Mean Justice
8 Years Means Nothing To The Horror The Poor Child Suffered
This Is Part Of The Reason People Grow Up So Twisted And Have The Wrong Perceptions Of Life!
And Big Money Cases Do Not Get A Higher Leg Up In The System As A Few Comment Posters Seem To Think
As The Courts Tend To Put The Victims On The Lowest Pedestals And Allow The Powers That Be To Drag Their Feet !
this verdict is a slap on the wrist for the perpetrator and a slap in the face for all women and girls in Dominica.
Where is the outrage? This child was raped repeatedly for 40 days, not to mention kidnapped and threatened.
The victim has been scared for life by this experience. And in a few years, this animal will be on the street again. I have little hope for his rehabilitation.
Women of Dominica RISE UP, SPEAK UP, WE MUST MAKE OUR VOICES HEARD. Is this the next level? OMG.
As I have told the new police chief in the past that the DPP will be his biggest nightmare; he sucks!!!
thats not ENUFFFF
I read reference being made about a “CHILD” in the above story. WHAT CHILD??? Shanice herself will feel insulted by that description.
WELCOME TO THE NATURE ISLE LAND OF ANYTHING GOES, WHERE YOU DO THE CRIME..YOU SERVE LESS TIME THEN YOU COME OUT AND LIME.. 8yrs They give the man..so he sex the person child UP TWO 2 TIMES A DAY FOR 40 DAYS , he maybe even sex her more tha that, he can kidnap the person child and for 40 days the child his prisoner…plus more and Gene Pestaina and the judge pardoning and giving him 8 ******* YEARS…Well all we with girl child in Dominica better start buy gun to shoot them Mother ******* Gene Pestaina doh care, his children all grow in England,attended the best private schools in ESSEX, ENGLAND atleast they grow safe although this is not the issue as for the Judge..iz not their family, child or sibling for it it was surely it would bring a different sentence…SACKWEH LAYBAN MODARRAH! Justice system in Dominica SUCKS..it needs an over haul. The best place to go commit a crime..you guaranted your freedom in 2 years of serving time for serious crime. Poor Girl!And they cannot even offer the girl counselling… Life must really suck now….
This sentence is a slap on the wrist for the perpetrator and a slap in the face to all women and girls in this country. And from a female Judge, no less. The victim was kidnapped and raped for 40 days!!! She is scared for life. NO JUSTICE, NO PEACE. Where are the women’s groups? Where is the outrage? Is this the next level?
what do you expect us as parents to do when the
justic system fail our children/ .shame i hope
that judge dont have female seblins so rape wont
knock on her door
8 years alone??? That’s disgusting. He need to be behind bars alot longer than that!
this is utter nonesense. only 8 years? what message is the system sending to the offenders out there? we who have girls children what is that saying to us. does the judge have daughters? this justice system is only telling us to take matters into our own hands
This is an outrage!!! Parents protect your children from perverts and pedophiles at all costs because the justice system will not. Where do we go from here in this country?
We need help in Dominica. Divine Help!
“the worst crime perpetuated on a young girl in this country.” and he only got 8 years?
And she say she is concerned about the sexual assault on our women in this country. 8 YEARS?????? Pure Hypocracy.
But what is that for me nuh? The judge feeling sorry for the criminal… what kind of sentencing is that????? These perverts will continue to molest our children, then they will get a slap on their wrisk.
parol pou rie
lets wait and see if he appeal his sentence. and see that out come of it.
So he traumatised this young girl whose life will never be the same. She will forever live this nightmare of that monster raping her once or twice daily, like is his **** wife (DNO don’t edit…I didn’t cuss, but can’t make my point without that all-powerful word :). Really, there is room to lock him up for good, give the monster his 41 years. We have to be careful that when these monsters return to society is not to just repeat. Jesus forbid that man will repeat that to another innocent in the next five years…so that he can get another light sentence eating Christmas ham I am paying for. What is wrong with our system? A guy raped an elderly in Laudat, he got 8 years, this man traumatise a minor for the same? What happen rape is just rape then? Why have victims testify nuh? For weeks in bush wi Dominica? I think the people of Dominica should file an appeal. Weeks in bush raping and threatening this child and the community is so unfriendly they are still harassing the child with sneers!?!?
It’s unbelievable to read this story line. I cannot understand why a judge would give such a light sentence for these crimes especially after the perpetrator plead GUILTY…there are some countries where he would be castrated, others he would be dismembered and some he would be sentenced to life. Every time he raped her is a separate offense, so imagine twice a day for 40 days,we are talking at the least 80 years. And he should be sentenced as a habitual offender which in certain countries after you are found guilty you get the maximum years that the law allows. So with that said he should spend the rest of his natural life behind bars. This is a TRAVESTY of justice and if this would be judge is not from DA,the citizenry should without getting violent get her out of DA post haste, and if she is from DA people should demonstrate every time she has a court case to decide weather it be high court or low court.
That is utter rubbish! In 8 years this man will be out of jail while this young woman will be living with this trauma for the rest of her life. Has the court set her up with therapy? If the judge is so concerned about the status of women and the increase in violence against women, then the sentence should have been much harsher.
Some cases should not be defended. Judges, and in extreme cases, the family of the violated should determine the sentence.
How is it Peter Alleyne determines his client was assisting the young child? By raping her? Would he feel the same if it was his child?
The judge stated that this was the worse crime perpetrated against a young girl and that the pepetrator deserves a length sentence. She ended up giving 8 eights! The justice system in Dominica has simply broken down. We need a set of reform-minded persons to take over the reins of leadership in this country to bring about the changes that are so much desired.
The defense should go to Lagon and celebrate on Tuesday night. What an island!
8 years! That is a slap on wrist! This guy effectively killed a young girl!
if it was one of my daughters i would pay some people in prison to rape him every night and day this would be justic
At first glance, this sentence seems so removed form the judge’s own conclusions that it seems ridiculous. I am therefore willing to accept that there are some details to this court case that surfaced in court but to which we are not privy. For example, i note that the gentleman was not charged with rape, but “indecent sexual assault”. The two are different.
My suspicion is that as preposterous as this sentence may seem, there is much more to the story and, that the judge is aware of the “much more”. This knowledge could probably explain the seemingly paltry sentence.
i would agree with you had the judge not say the following:”the aggravating aspects of the case clearly outweighed the mitigating factors.”
If Dominica seriously wants to protects it’s children, maybe consider Jessica’s Law. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jessica%27s_Law
This case and the sentencing reflects everything that is presently failing in Dominica at this moment. For the protection of the victim some parts of the evidence should never have been public knowledge – yes it can be done. The young lady says they remind her of it at school – there should have been a court order protecting her from such discussions – we all knew she was missing and kidnapped! And for the love of God – what is with all the reduced sentencing? Why?
No justice was served. You mean a human/woman passed that judgement? Lady imagine a man raping you everyday for 40 days in the bushes. That child was found with her school uniform, the same clothes on for 40 days. Lady, Lady…..
Judge, did you sleep after that sentence?
Judge, do you have children?
Judge, do you have nieces or nephews?
Judge, did you born of a woman?
Judge do you menstrate?
Judge do you call yourself female/woman?
40 days in the forest, no change of clothes, geting RAPED OVER AND OVER AGAIN x 40 AND MORE.
WHERE ARE THE MULTIPLE COUNTS OF RAPE.
I WANT JUSTICE FOR THIS CHILD!
This is totally and utterly unbelievable. This is not justice. All of us Dominicans need to be a little worried about the state of our courts here. What message is this giving out?? I feel very, very sad for Shanice, who will still be living in fear and yes, eight years will go in no time!! This is truly UNBELIEVABLE AND A MOCKERY! Totally unacceptable.
Please appeal the case.
that bastard should be locked up for 50 years, what is going on with the justice system in DA?
others people get more than 8 yrs for minor incidents we need changes more serious and inteligent judges
It is so sad so very sad to see what Edmond did to this young girl and the justice system who is there to help her with her odeal ended up raping her and distroying he a second time giving this bastard only eight years behind bars what a disgrace.
And this was a female judge. Where is here empathy for the victim, where is her understanding of the cruelty of first the act and then the further cruelty of the victim knowing that this scum will be out and able to hurt her or some other poor girl in no time.
This is a crime which in civilized countries would put the man in jail for life. Kidnapping, forcible rape of a minor, possession of a firearm with intent. There is no first world country that would plea bargain down an open and shut case like this. Dominica’s legal justice system looks like a joke. And after 8 years will this man be rehabilitated? Will he receive psychotherapy if he is such a damaged individual? In the States when a man is convicted of a sexual crime against a minor he can not live near any school, he must check in regularly with a probation officer and in some cases must wear an ankle monitor. That’s how far from just this decision is. This young girl has been traumatized and it will haunt her for the rest of her life. What can this society offer her as protection when this man gets out of jail and is walking around free as a bird?
sickening and disgusting! an example should be made of this criminal! one day you judges, lawyers will pay for letting these criminals walk free
well,well,well.what is going on in our lovely isle of beauty? you mean after the judge agree that the crime was the worst Dominica has ever seen, she gives him such a sentence? how is she helping girls and women who are being abused? judge, I thought you were a woman? wake up and do your job properly lady! Behanzin was reprimanded but at least he did his job well. we need a few more Behanzin in our court system.
Mista kidnapped raped de child for 40 continuous days and he gets less time than criminals that commit lesser crime in 1 day.
Culture is one thing, but that’s one of the reasons I fear my children visiting Dominica to spend vacation with Family, as ignorant as it sounds! Dominica have no Health and Legal System, in North America, Women and Children are protected, and the Police always show up! Thank God!
Now you tell me, this child was 15 years old, in the bush for 40 days, sexually asssualted twice a day! My daugther is 14 years of age, I have personally dedicated my life to my children, , period!
This sentence is madness!!! This Judge and difence relationship must be investigated.
I cannot reconcile the Judges remarks regarding the seriousness of this offence and the punishment meted out. This is so inconsistent and utterly ridiculous;8 years out of a possible 41 years in jail.
if he was in Tortola under justice Red Head he would be looking at a good 20 years. But the justice system in Dominica sucks real bad.That is like a slap in the victim face.
I do not live in Dominica, but the island is going down the wrong path. Please people try to reclaim the place from crooked politicians, judges, lawyers etc. You are heading the wrong direction which will lead to no good. Stop wailing and do something about it. I agree with bailactnow, please start demonstrating, march on the courts and demand true justice or removal of the judge and all those you think are not doing their job properly. This is totally insane!
This is a slap on the hands for the defence; what is going on with the justice system in Dominica? This is a joke!!!! A young girl was forced into captive and raped twice a day for 40 days; this guy should get 80 yrs in jail; double the amount of days he kept the young girl. This girl is traumatised for the rest of her life.
8 yrs tout seule? 40 days in the bushes, this young lady went through an ordeal…”sexual intercourse with the child everyday, sometimes twice per day” like a damned slave. She has to live with this for the rest of her life!! And he gets only 8 yrs? Well, I will always ask God Almighty to bless my womb. And I know I will be like an effin mother hog. Tell a man if he so daring, brace! I will literally slice him to pieces, because it is not illegal to own a machete or a cutlass. Apparently the justice system can’t protect us, so we have to protect ourselves and our own. This is outrageous now, too many perpetrators practically getting away with their crimes.
I”am wondering if these people have daughter to be letting this guy gettin away with only eight. This child is scared for life. Clement Joseph and Pestina are not easy to be dropping sexual assualt charges. This monster had sex with the child for forty days sometimes twice a day it breaks my heart and gives me goose bumps. May God have mercy on all of you.
OJ Simpson got life in prison in Las Vegas for kidnapping, and trying to get his gun back.
Only 8 years.
There is discount now even in court!!!! 20 percent off,,,,
Hello. Well what our Criminal Justice System is coming to when we have the prosecution agreeing to such lesser charges. Then the Judge is sentencing the criminal to eight years in jail for Kidnapping First Degree, Rape First Degree, Unlawful Imprisonment First Degree, Criminal Possession and Use of a Weapon First Degree. My people you all need to protest in front of the Court House and her home because this is a total betrayal and a travesty of justice for this young lady.
You are right. The latest recommendation by lennox lawrence is to stage and archadia attack. I hope he will be at the front of the band wagon with his gang tony, I lick de ass and scare it, manembracador, the burner, nanny and mammie.
According to law, a person cannot be charged in the same indictment on the same facts for both Kidnapping and Abduction. Also, the indecent assault when convicted with unlawful sexual assault, according to sentencing guidelines set out by the Court of Appeal, will attract no additional penalty. Educate yourself before you belch nonsense
Jim.
Hello Jim. Maybe you can explain to me . How can someone commit Kidnapping without abducting the victim. Also its Indecent Exposure of a person which is a lower included crime in Unlawful Sexual Assault/Rape. Now I mentioned five vicious and separate crimes and I feel he should served Consecutive sentences instead of concurrent sentences. Also you mention that I should educate myself which is a noble cause and I certainly endorsed that but I would like to inform you that. I have two Bachelor of science degrees and twenty four years of Law Enforcement experience. Also remember one can make their point without using derogatory words at each other. Thanks.
This is very sad and Edmond should get at least 20 years, but there is a lot more to the story than people are taking into account.
1. Yes. He had a VERY troubled childhood
2. Yes. The two of them were “LOVERS” before all of this happened…. YES… this little girl walked in her mother’s footsteps (those of you from Layou would know what I’m talking about).
The half of the story has not yet been told. It’s all about perspective.
But, YES. Edmond deserves wayyyy more time for these many crimes and that’s coming from a close pal.
DayZee.
Hello. I want to address article#2(Lovers) in your Post. A fifteen year old cannot give consent to a relationship or sexual contact with this perpetrator . She is a child and she is under age. Ok he may have had a trouble childhood which would be a mitigating factor when comes to sentencing but this cannot justify his criminal acts.
All you doh get it yet? The court system in Dominica is a money making machine. The only time the court wants to dispense justice is when it have a big money to be made.
That is why they charging record sums of money for weed and coke. But when it comes to getting justice for victims, them kind of crime don’t have money in it.
They recycling them guys there quickly through the system hoping that their next crime will include drugs so that they can get their cut.
She also stated that she was concerned about the sexual abuse of young girls, the gravity of the offence, the public’s disapproval and the need to protect women and children against such offences.
Well I doh want to see what sentence this Grudge would have handed down if she wasn’t so concerned nah papa.
GOD help us in this society there…
lol.the grudge,,,lol
You mean “Judge”?
i agree with u
u see this rubbish.its like a victory for the defense. if a man can get only 8 years for a crime like this, whoever defended him won the case. where is the satisfaction and motivation for the police officers who worked hard on this case? its like a slap in there faces. i just cant believe that. but i waiting for a man to think my daughter is his floor mat.
Her parents should consider sueing the entire country for physical, mental, emotional etc damages.
What about the scars for the young lady involved and her parents – it appears that the hush money is less painful.
The story said after the victim’s testimony he changed his plea to guilty for 4 out 6 charges. The state later dropped the abduction and indecent assault charges. The victim’s testimony may have influenced the sentencing. Must be something like that if he only got 8 years.
Sex education, self worth and esteem needs to be taught in schools at all levels, Sunday schools, youth meetings, community meetings, talk shows etc. We need to take back our young girls from these predators.
We can’t blame lack of fathers in the household because recent events says otherwise. Some of us cannot trust those so called fathers.
so perverts get discount on rape charges to .20% off that and 20% off that…that child should not be in dominica .they should send her far away.she will forever be ashamed of what harpen .every day ,all day the enviola raping her.no shower.no toilet .no freedom and defenitely no respect from her rapist lawyer.awa.
i know its not enough but what you think is his lawyer’s job? To defend him i think and to get the lowest possible sentence for his/her client
God is patient. One day those lawyers will pay for it.
I wish I could dislike your comment a million times over. Our concern is the young girl.
Judges should not take sentencing lightly becuz they send a wrong message. Criminals have no fear of the court especially that judge becuz she never send them stock farm for long. They must teach the judge how to sentence if he does not know. Her sentences are ridiculous. Behanzi would do a better job. I believe it is time to change the judge. Our judge Baptiste was good. That lady I don’t think she taking the job seriously. 8 years a sentence for what the man do to the child. we should sign a petition to take her out. I am raging mad. no wonder Dominica getting from bad to worse. The courts have failed us.
this is awful. that monster must be laughiing all the way to jail. He should have been castrated and then given 40 yrs.
40 days…40 years…
I’m really sorry for the young lady who was involved in all of this. im sure this sentence gave no relief to her suffering..
@hype – i strongly agree with you. I wonder what is going through that judge mind when she was handing down sentence. she must be joking!
Out of a possible 41 years in jail, Webster Edmond will be behind bars for a maximum of 8 years and nine months—-News Article
Say what! That judgement of the court gives this man 32 years of freedom–meaning that “41-9=32” where is the justice for that young girl, who claims to still have the torments in her mind, because of that man’s conducts against her?
I understand that we are called to forgive others for their trespasses against us, as we would want them to forgive us, but good heavens! 32 years?
That amount of forgiveness is a little bit too much for what that man did to this 15 year old girl! There is no question about that you see!
It is quite possible that she has suffered a lifetime scar or wound, psychologically–preventing her to function, as a normal woman with men, for as long as she lives. And this man only gets 5 out of 14 years for the psychological damage he may have caused that girl.
How does the court of Dominica expect people to respect its laws, and how do we reduce crime in Dominica, when our judgement only shows mercy and compassion to the criminals, as their victims continue in the state of torment and torture for the rest of their days in this world.
O Lord God of Love, Holiness, and Truth! Help the people of my homeland, Dominica–especially the young, the innocent, the weak of heart, and the elderly–who are being battered by those who claim to be in authority, but do not know what is right from wrong. How can they know what is “Truth” In Jesus name I pray! Amen!
i’m at a loss for words honestly, i have been trying to stomach this thing for the whole afternoon, and i dont even think it makes sense sound my grievances from reading this article cuz we apparently have the same issues in common, but i just wanna add one thing……the justice system is really aiming for people to take hte law into their own hands!!! #absolutegarbage!
With that ridiculous and pathetic sentence, the judge is telling the child what happened to her is all HER FAULT!!
What a precedence this must set as this must be the worse case of its type in Dominica. So what are future rapists and abductors expecting then, 8 yrs max? Future rapists can say well we wont do the gun thing, so we will get even less of a sentence.
What about the victim, was the court system looking after her interest. What a slap in the face for her confidence and self-worth. Who cares if the man is unrepentant, the penalty should fit the crime and be big, bad and serious enough to wipe any smirk off this rat’s face.
Ridiculous!!
DNO, please set up a site so dominicans can vote in total dissaproval to that hogwash rubbish the courts are doing right now. How long can we allow those nonesence to be happening!! It is time now to revolt. I am calling for a massive demonstration against those joker sentencing. We need persons like Tiyanni in those positions. That judge doesn’t love Dominicans. They just love the money and will keep on manipulating the system. I am really fuming with rage!!!!
Dominica wants to pattern all other things on America; why not their laws? In America that would call for about 120 years behind bars! This is getting me sick right now.
The sentence is waayy to lenient! This is an outrage! A young girl is battered physically and emotionally not to forget psychologically and all the courts can say is 8 yrs!!! She is traumatized beyond anyone can imagine and this poor excuse of a man, this convicted rapist gets a mere walk in the park of a sentence?! Where are we going in Dominica? What does the court expect a father or mother to do when a grown pervert chooses to violate their child in the worst possible way? Really what?! Any country, government or people who take lightly the well-being of the innocent and vulnerable have many many questions to answer before God. I’ll pray for this young girl and others like her, victims of evil acts by evil degenerates among us. And I will do everything within my power to protect the innocent and defenseless.
Mothers and fathers/guardians protect your children at all costs, you hear me? Protect them.
That’s ridiculous!! it is no wonder people take the law into their own hands. Boy, I don’t even know what to say.. Poor girl! I tell you it really pains my heart. Mr. caused destruction of an entire family and country. the poor mother even reached psyco yes! No boy, something must be done about that so-called legal system. Mercy my God!
alas…and you wonder why most girls that get rape or molested dont report it. Its because nothing happens to the guys.
8 years awa wi dammm what this country is coming to. I feel sorry for this young girl four years from now he gonna be on the streets in her eyes again awa wi. The court system can come better than that 40 days 40 nights to 8 (4) years
If he does not die in prison, when he is released, I hope there will be a condition for a restraining order on him, not to go near her or touch her.
Wow what utter rubbish.Who advocates for the victims?You plead guilty and you are rewarded for not wasting the time of these so called law professionals?Come on Dominicans let your voices be heard.8 years is a joke.This young lady must be feeling victimized all over again.
“Not wasting the Court’s time” is a big joke. I never heard or knew there was such a condition which should be as much as expressed in Court to lessen the sentence. It is ridiculous. They should refrain from making such a statement.
Honestly this is ridiculous, this is one of the most serious cases that I have heard of in Dominica. There could be separate counts of rape for each incident – that is twice a day. And this is the punishment. This is riduclous !
I think that legal system paro-ing now. That child’s life will be a living hell after this eight years…..in fact 4 plus. Lord help us
I hope by then she will be out of the country.
You can understand why people will take the law in their own hands! What foolishness is that the child will be no more than 23 years when that RAT is out again! What is that? Could somebody please explain that judgement to me. Pure NONESENSE!
make it 20
That’s so hurtful to hear, only 8 years!!! Oh no!!! God help our country and the people in it….. These judges and lawyers have killed their conscience….they have no feelings or what so ever..
Where is justice for the girl who no doubt will have the torment of this the rest of her life?
Not only was he guilty of possessing a gun and ammunition.
Guilty of possessing Marijuana.
Guilty in intending to deliver it to others.
He rapes a minor twice a day and held her captive? Why not give the guy 20 years in the slammer. Clearly he is a danger to society.
Bring back Behanzin!!!!!
we need him no more than ever!!!!
Who tell u he want to come back
I’m lost. The judge’s actions does not match up to her words. This is totally rediculous. The young lady got a life sentence from the guys actions and all he got was free room and board for 8 years. Somebody needs to help me understand that formula.
She will never forget her ordeal. It will be with her for the rest of her life and may affect her future relationship with the opposite gender.
I need to understand also. I am totally confused by the Judges’s remarks and the resulting sentence.
What is the purpose of the discount??? Discount for what??? Maybe the Judge should imprison him at her home and she would know better. I think we should start protesting to get this Judge out of D/ca. She is of no use…. to civil minded people. She appears to be on the side of the criminals.
Judges in the Caribbean region seem to be attending court in a diminished state of alcohol induced psychosis. I believes our laws should allow for prosecutors to advice of the sentence most appropriate for criminals upon conviction.
when this judge speak you will tremble but to the contrary her sentencing is as mild as it get.. fellars given rebate and discount and all sorts of foolishness.l
As if he did something good to earn a discount and rebate. Must be a business transaction.
Some Judge eh.
That poor child has been handed a life sentence of living with trauma, bitterness, and mistrust, not to mention the resulting psychological damage she is likely to hand to any offspring she may have, no Matter how hard she tries to prevent it ….whist Mr gets 8years? The injustice here shames us all
IN MY HANDS correction
so jason got 1 less year than edmund for stealing money from ppl and edmund kidnapped a child, had sex with her, held her at gun point for all those days and he only got 8 years? really? hmmmmm
I do not know about this case. However, this is not fair to Jason. If he had the means he could easily have repaid the money or did he. Nevertheless, the punishment for sentence does not appear to fit the crime, considering what Edmund did and he only got 8 years, one more than Jason. The Law is not always fair.
Thats not sounding good and it not looking right where it have a lot like him out there getting eight year in jail is like sending all the rest to do the same HMMMMMM
i know right? this concurrent sentencing is not good
I pity our country! According to his testimony the poor child was raped her twice a day for 40 days. And he is only sentenced to 8years!! My Gosh!!!! Tears
It was sheer hell for her. She was like a prisoner. The court should have taken into account what he did to her, how long he held her, depriving her of her freedom, human right and under the condition that he did. The sentence did not fit his crime.
My fellow Dominicans we need to demonstrate outside the high court. The justice system has gone mad and it is encouraging crime and insighting peaceful citizens to vigilante justice. Email [email protected] and let”s organise to get justice in our country.
father protect us from this judges and jururs lawyers etc..i feel so hurt it’s like it was my daughter . alas..i always say is when is one of there very own they are going to change the system in the meantime they do not know how it feels for someone took rape etc our children they just know they up there getting there money..smdh. alalas alas we not safe at all..really only God can help us.
Ok, this time I am not blaming the court system. I am beleiving that its the police and the charges and evidence they brought to court because no judge would see all the necessary charges and drop below the line.
Common man officers help out the people of our blessed country better than that so that real justice will be served.
All sane thinking people would want to blame the court system or officers for the outcome but one thing we must take into consideration…We do not have access to all the evidence. I have been wondering from DNO’s previous story why some charges were actually dropped..Just wondering..Is anybody else doing this as well??????
No nobody else is wondering a darn thing.
Read the story again and see what he IN FACT pled guilty to and stop trying to play smart. you ain’t no lawyer.
this is as plain as black and white.
I must take a drink on this one. Thats why I love D.N.O. You hear it all, see it all, and know it all. But your comments seems to be coming from some one with a bird brain. Man the police did their job, the matter before the court is entirely at the hands of the judge and jury where it applies. My opinion this judge seems to have a lot to say before sentenceing. But in the end she have no ????? to deliver, thats the part that irks me. Well done officers you all did your part and as we were trained,You all have no control over sentenceing. Thats why we are always reminded the job is a thankless one, but at the same time we have to perform to the best of our abilities. All real officers know that.
What he did was evident and evidence in itself to warrant much more than 8 years sentence.
the bastard got 73 days of jail for each day of kidnapping…not a lot for the damage he caused to the girl…
As you may know by now this is a Law society and not A justice society. And going back to a comment that was not published crime is a business!!!.
what the *** is that. He should get 40 years, a year for each day he held the child. I vex we. that just upset me.
8 years (equivalent to 4 years in effect)? that cannot be right given the seriousness of the crimes. I await further details before making more comments.
This is just totally crazy. This is what our justice system in Dominica has come to? With these types of punishments anyone can just commit a crime and they know most definitely that they are going to get away with it. As for me the way I see it is 40 days and 40 nights should equal 40 years. As for the judge if you are a female, my question is “Do you have a heart?” Do you know what this young child will be going through for the next 8 years, knowing that there is a possibility that she will be facing this man sometime in the very near future. With the way our justice is right now it might be less than 5 years. SHAME SHAME SHAME on our justice system.
The child testified that she was raped every SINGLE day. Can you imagine that? Can you just imagine that? Add that to all the other charges, and I simply can’t fathom an 8 year sentence.
I am extremely hurt by this sentence.
Twice a day. For a child it is much, too much as the saying goes.
DNO Maybe made a typo…
i waiting on the correction for it to read 80 years and not 8 years…..
Life with no parole. That is what he deserved.
Unlawful sexual intercourse(multiple times)=16years
Kidnapping =8years
Unlawful imprisonment(40days)=10years
Total (should be) =34years!!!
Our courts are responsible for our rise in crime!!!
I forgot to add rape and battery=+15years
I pity our country! He raped her twice a day for 40 days and is only sentenced to 8years!! Tears
he will be out in 4 yrs…only in DA
We hope not. He should serve every bit of the sentence.
dno that isnt news that is beff
This is in deed news because we citizens were all worried about this young girl during the incident. It is good that we know what he outcome of the matter is.
It may be beff to you but to many of us it is welcome news.
Thanks DNO!
Are you serious? Stupidest comment of the year! Imbecile!
I hate to call you fool, you fool with no sense and making no sense.
Sweet.
Hello. This violent and vicious criminal was arrested, charged and convicted of some serious crimes. This type of sentence gives us an insight into our Criminal Justice System and further demonstrate that some judges are out of touch when it comes to violence in our country . So this isn’t beff rather its a stain on the system who suppose to protect our citizens from such criminals.
I thought those crime carry the maximum penalty 8 year for kidnapping and just call it rape wow what happen to the 25 year…this place is rediculous seriously
Thats not enough
hummmmmmm
what ? cases like this should be given a higher penalty , cause it send out the wrong message to the youth out there .
concern
? eight years is going to go by so fast and the young lady have to see that man come out from prison and walking the streets? magwa sa!
na man
Before i make any further comments on this i would really like someone to educate me on the maximum sentence Raping and kidnapping carry. please i am awaiting a response.
none sense.. before you know it in 4 yrs dude will be looking for a new victim.. maybe a boy this time..
This time it could be worst for the victim.
8 YEARS? I YHINK THEY NEED TO CHECK THE CALENDAR IN THAT COURT ROOM, I THINK ITS STUCK ON APRIL 1ST
With sentences like these we encourage vigilante justice.
justice system failure again and again,this guy will be out by 5 years then mess someone else’s child life cmon,what the hell is this.this judges should be jailed also.
That judge. That judge. Where is the deterent factor? For good behaviour the man will be out on the street and less than no time. He will no doubt at some stage come face to face with the young girl he abused, pillaged, raped and traumatized. The Dominican public has been dealt a kick in the butt by the judge. Doesn’t she understand how serious the crime was? The keys to that man’s cell should have been thrown away. The sentence will not deter would-be abusers of children. After all the man admitted to the heinous crimes (kidnapping and indecnet assault) and he literally walks away with 8 years more 5.5 years with oneyear already gone. How could his guilty plea be a strong metigating factor? But then we are in the Lenten Season. He who is without sin cast the first stone.
That is the Court System for you or is that of the jurors? The case could be appealed but I doubt it will be. Eight years are not enough for what he did. It should be without early parole, I hope. He should spend the full time in prison with hard labour.
I do not comprehend this. It should be more specific. What does this mean, sentencing is to take effect from September 2012? We are in March. I suppose that he is still in prison or so I hope. If not, expect a runaway.
This case can’t appeal. If you know of some law that allows the State to appeal please inform them. I am sure they would
Can’t the parents appeal as private citizens, just asking.
If the government itself feels that the sentence is unfair and insufficient (with the victims in mind) which also pertains to acquittal in some cases, the government could appeal.
Dominica has a strange Law and Court system that the government does not get involved. If the government did, many more criminals/murderers, would not be released on bail, would not be acquitted and receive a minimal sentence for atrocious crimes, only to be released a few years prior to the full sentence, as handed down by the Court, is served and to re-offend.
These are matters the government should look into. Too small a country for this? The victims are the ones paying the price.
There is a saying, the victims should sue the government, black and white for this.
People are too passive. So is the government and Court system. Then later they better not cry wolf.
Boss jurors don’t sentence convicted criminals. All they do is find the accused guilty or not guilty. The judge in her infinite wisdom decides on the sentence to hand down.
The judge nor the DPPP are beyond scrutiny by the government. The governmet is their boss. The government leaves it up to them who make decisions.
This is why Sarah Lynne Augustine, an arrested murderer of her two children, who was imprisoned and out on bail was allowed to sneak back into Canada without prosecution. Is this correct and a fair Law and Court System? Was the DPP fair to the victims, those two babies and their families who reside in Dominica, who are also victims who are deprived of them and their love?
It is a lax system. I hope one day Sarah will pay for her crimes right here on earth in Canada and later in eternity. This includes those DA authorities who allowed her to escape the hands of justice in Dominica.
Some of us are not fools and cannot easily be deceived. Know that no Canadian government/ authority would allow a murderer to enter or re-enter Canada unless it is done sneakily. Criminals must first be prosecuted in the land where the crimes were committed and serve time.
The only concern the Canadian government would have as a Canadian citizen is that she was treated fairly and humanely.
Generally, the Canadian government would not interfere in the jurisdiction of Dominica and other countries.
The DPP deceived Dominicans and only told them after the fact that Sarah Lynne left Dominica to return to Canada. Tell me, if this is not a great deceiver and also a liar. They will pay the price in time.
It is not too late to prosecute her even in Canada. Her children were Canadian citizens, at least one of them. I wonder what she told the Canadian government when she had to register them as being deceased.
Justice and Truth.
Hello this case cannot be appealed. Your name is Justice and Truth but it seems to me that you don’t know anything about court procedure.
8???!!!! y’all got it twisted
It should have been 40 years, one years for each day, that is the 40 days he held the girl in captivity, this is sick, the law system in Dominica is a big joke, them men and women saying that they are judges and jurors in Dominica are just a bounce of jokers
they sent d man on vacation
STUPES!!!!!!!
is that it????
That’s just nonsense,8 yrs
If he was before Judge Redhead in Tortola, that would have been 20 years – no ifs, no buts, no maybe ….. nothing less than 20. Only in Dominica. A person caught with one gram of marijuana gets even more time than that! Our Judiciary in D/ca is taking this to a new level now. Stop it!
OMG he will do it again in 4 years time. Shameless…..
OMG, THERE IS NO JUSTICE
That’s the biggest joke i have ever heard. Imagine a man destroyed a young lady life by helding her 40days and 40nights and he only got eight years.
well papa 8 years for 40 days and to start sep.2012 bull crap lawless island
Maybe he still serving time for the previous charges.
But doh worry, as soon as he come out he will do something to go right back in. We just have to pray it does not involve another minor.
8 years alone, better than nothing.but knowing the status of our court today everything is a joke, i find 8 years is good. hats off. i hope that 8 years given to him, helps to act as a healing for the young woman.
u know that 8yrs is really infact 4 yrs??????
you cannot be serious
8 years? /facedesk
DNO is not yet April’s Fool’s day…..
Thats all. 8yrs – waypapa. Its times like that you want to take the law in your own hands
That’s why you must protect your family at all cost. No questions
THAT ALONE
8 years!!!!!!! Bernie you got to be joking!!!
i knooo
YOU MUST BE JOKING!!!! ! I am horrified!!!!
i knoooo right that man needs to big hanged by the penis let his arze sufferrr……he hav dis lil gurl life in a bad area nuw but with God evrything is sucessful al keep her in my prayerssss
8 years… really
With all what said and done.Were there any evidence that the child was sexually abuse?where was the medical report? He was wrong for taking such a turn.Did he hold up the girl against her own will?.Something went strange and he took the wrong approach.He realise he made a mistake and brought the police to the scene.This young man can change .No one knows what pain and suffering he endured. They knew it was he who went with the girl.ITS VERY DIFFICULT WHEN PARENTS ALLOW THEIR DAUGHTERS TO BE BOUGHT.The boy act as a fool and he will learn by his mistakes.If the boy wasnt hot headed he would be in peace with the girl..I know of cases where older men are involved with school girls and it`s ok with the parents and soceity.AS LONG AS MONEY TALKS AND THE MAN HAS DISCIPLINE NO ONE MAKES IT AN ISSSUE….