Tarish Pit native Octave Anthony appeared before Chief Magistrate Candia Carette George on Friday, April 26, at the Roseau District Magistrate’s Court and pleaded guilty to battery against his fellow villager, Ivon Simon, and throwing missiles in public.
On Wednesday, April 24th, 2024, Simon was struck in the shoulder by rocks thrown at him by Anthony near a shop in the village. During the altercation, the shopkeeper contacted the police, and upon their arrival, Anthony stated, “Officer, I was frustrated, sorry.”
In the courtroom, the accused requested and was granted an opportunity to apologize to the virtual complainant. He expressed remorse, saying, “I’m sorry about that, okay? I was upset and lost control, so I apologize. I really didn’t intend for it to escalate that far.”
Magistrate Carette George asked Simon whether he wished her to proceed with the sentencing of the accused despite the apology, to which he replied, “Yes.”
Considering his guilty plea and the fact that it was his first offense in a long time, Anthony was ordered to pay a fine of $500.00 by May 31st for battery, with a two-month suspended imprisonment, and an additional $500.00 for throwing missiles, with a one-year suspended imprisonment.
The chief magistrate cautioned Anthony on the importance of preserving peace and avoiding conflicts, advising, “Next time, call the police if someone is bothering you or ask them to move away from your door. Do not resort to throwing stones. Live in peace.”
I am happy the answer was YES.
Pay the $500.00, and stop throwing stones at people. It can kill.
I see those things just too often!!