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4-YEAR-OLD WATCHES AS FATHER MURDERED
Viral video shows freightened girl run away as dad is shot
By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net
A HEART-WRENCH-
ING video capturing a young father’s murder in front of his toddler daughter sparked public outrage over the weekend. The deadly shooting happened early Saturday morning when Quintero Arnett, believed to be in his 20s, was sitting in a vehicle with his daughter and girlfriend outside a business on Dunmore Street. CCTV footage captured a car pulling up before several masked gunmen emerged and opened fire on his
Staff
Cease order on Exuma moorings
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
AN Exuma-wide boat mooring/anchorage deal branded as “insane” by Bahamian marina chiefs has
been halted by local government authorities due to the purported absence of key approvals.
According to documents Bahamas Moorings Company has secured a 21-year seabed lease for 49 separate
FIRE RENEWS CONCERNS over nearby residents’ safety
By EARYEL BOWLEG
A BUSINESS that stores vehicles from accidents went up in flames on Friday, renewing safety concerns
among nearby residents. Bryan Bethel watched helplessly as his business of 12 years, Honda Plus, burned. Police said all the vehicles inside the
anchorage/moorage sites throughout the Exuma Cays, was on Friday ordered to “cease and desist” what was described as an “unauthorised mooring installation”.
By JADE RUSSELL
THE SCENE on Dunmore Street where a man was shot and killed on Saturday.
Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune
National Women’s Symposium held Saturday
MINISTER of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting Myles LaRoda speaks during the opening session of the National Women’s Advisory Council’s (NWAC) one-day National Women’s Symposium at Bahamas Harvest Church on Saturday.
Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
Former AG: it is time to criminalise marital rape
both the governing party and the opposition have expressed opposition to gender-based violence (GBV). She called on Parliament to pass the necessary legislation, including provisions defining marital rape.
Her comments came in response to Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, who said he wants “consensus” on the issue and to understand the views of a broad cross-section of Bahamians, “not just one group.”
“If we want to define marital rape, then we need an amendment,” she told The Tribune on Saturday on the sidelines of the National Women’s Advisory Council symposium.
Section 3 of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence
Act defines rape as “the act of any person not under fourteen years of age having sexual intercourse with another person who is not his spouse without the consent of that person.”
In 2022, the Davis administration proposed a simple change — removing the words “who is not his spouse” from the definition of rape in the law. However, the administration has not followed through on the recommendation.
Mrs Gibson maintained that legal amendments are needed to protect women, stressing that no form of violence, particularly
Junkyard
establishment, located off Gladstone Road, were destroyed.
“I don’t have no emotional feelings right now,” he said.
Despite the devastation, Mr Bethel insisted his business operated safely.
Footage showed a massive black cloud billowing into the sky, accompanied by popping sounds as fire consumed nearby cable wires.
Chief Fire Officer Superintendent Demeris Armbrister said police received reports of a vehicle fire at Honda Plus Auto and Car Repair around 2.30pm.
A unit from the Cable Beach Fire Station arrived within five minutes to find multiple vehicles engulfed in flames. Upon assessment, three additional units were requested.
Police believe the fire started on the eastern end
against women and children, should be seen as acceptable in the country.
“I don’t think women should be put in that position to have to figure out which charge am I going to bring,” she said. “I think our society should demonstrate very clearly what our position is.”
She also urged Bahamian women, who make up the majority of registered voters, to take action, likening the fight to the “suffragette” movement.
“We have to act. We have to demand what we want in our country, for ourselves, for our children and for our families,” Mrs Gibson said.
Earlier this month, Attorney General Ryan Pinder revealed that the administration does not expect to introduce legislation to criminalise marital rape before the end of its term. He suggested that every administration has struggled with the political implications of the issue.
This revelation sparked backlash. Human Rights Bahamas accused the government of bowing to pressure from church groups and a male-dominated society, saying it had failed Bahamian women.
Some activists have also criticised the government for ignoring the reality of marital rape. A 2022 University of The Bahamas study found that one in 12 married women — an estimated 4,000 — had been raped by their husbands.
fire renews concerns over nearby residents’ safety
of the establishment, but the exact cause remains unknown.
Strong winds caused the blaze to spread rapidly, and at one point, firefighters contained only 50 percent of the flames.
Water pressure in the area posed a challenge, making securing the water needed to extinguish the fire difficult.
Mr Bethel said he was unaware of what had happened until his son called about the fire.
Honda Plus is located along the main road in the Victoria Gardens subdivision. The owner defended his business location, saying he had obtained five different licences.
“When I was dealing with the leasing, I had to make sure I got everything done,” he said. “This is a commercial/residential area, but I’m on the main road. My property goes through to the corner.”
“You got other hazardous
places here — look at all these gas companies.”
As for who was to blame, he said: “They put the blame on me, but for what? Ain’t nothing wrong with nobody house. It’s me who took the loss. My building is gone, my business is gone, my income stopped that day, right here. So what is the blame? A little smoke?”
Next door, a scrap metal business sustained some damage. Its owner, Gevon Fisher, also responded to criticisms about having scrap metal yards in residential areas.
“We don’t really deal with cars,” he said. “We buy aluminum, copper, brass, and stuff like that — not really things that are hazardous to the environment.”
He added that his business had fire hoses and extinguishers as safety measures, but they were no help in this situation.
Residents watched in shock as the fire spread and did not hold back their
frustrations about the business operating so close to homes.
“Everybody had concerns about it. It was a hazard — with rodents, with fire, with chemicals messing up the water table. It was a hazard generally,” said Bersil Cox.
He claimed residents had already been affected by the business. “There were traffic problems, environmental problems with overgrown bushes, and, like I said, rodents. You also had a lot of strangers coming into the area, people who weren’t from here, and then they started plotting out on people’s property. This wasn’t called for, not in a residential area like this.”
Another resident said neighbours had been trying to get the business shut down.
“This sort of business, it isn’t a good idea to have it out here,” said Myra Sturrup. “You don’t know where the fire is going to end up. It can spread out of control.”
DRONE footage shows toxic smoke billowing from a junkyard off Gladstone Road on Friday.
Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
FORMER ATTORNEY GENERAL ALLYSON MAYNARD-GIBSON
First RBDF team to Haiti returns without incident
By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net
THE first team of Royal Bahamas Defence Force
(RBDF) officers deployed to Haiti as part of a multi-national force has completed its six-week mission without encountering violence or gang activity.
Acting Commander Alexis Brown, commanding officer of HMBS Bahamas, and his team of 59 officers returned to The Bahamas on February 8, marking the end of the mission, which started on December 28. Their focus was providing maritime support in Haitian waters, aimed at tackling smuggling, human trafficking, and illegal migration, while supporting security operations in the country.
“Our time there was
peaceful,” Commander Brown told The Tribune. “There were no arrests, no gang violence, and no need for serious intervention. We did a few boardings, but they were routine and without incident.”
During their deployment, the team carried out patrols along Haiti’s coastline to potentially intercept illegal firearms and drugs, as well as to prevent migrants from leaving the country by sea.
Although Haiti continues to grapple with significant gang violence and political instability, Commander Brown noted that the officers did not directly confront any gangs during their assignment.
“We stayed on high alert throughout our deployment, given the security situation in Haiti,” he said. “But we didn’t have to engage with the gangs.”
This mission is part of the Bahamian government’s contribution to the international efforts to stabilise Haiti, in line with the Davis administration’s commitment to send a total of 150 RBDF officers. This force is working alongside other international troops, including Kenyan and Jamaican forces, to combat violence, facilitate humanitarian aid, and secure key ports.
Commander Brown said he wished his team could have done more to help tackle the violence that has devastated Haiti.
“We knew our mission, but definitely, we would have liked to do more to help reduce the gangs’ hold on Haiti,” he said.
“The only way this situation is going to end is if we can successfully turn Haiti back.”
Haiti’s ongoing struggle with gang violence and social unrest has been a key focus of the multinational force, with international forces, including Kenya’s leadership, continuing to try to push back against criminal groups that have taken control of large parts of the country. The violence has led to more than 4,500 deaths this year alone, and an estimated 700,000 people displaced due to terror from the gangs.
At the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, regional leaders discussed Haiti’s crisis and future support.
Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley reiterated that while CARICOM countries have offered technical support, “boots on the ground” would have to come from larger nations
CARICOM launches comprehensive review of Caribbean’s trade relations with US
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter
CARICOM has launched a comprehensive review of the region’s trade relations with the United States as Caribbean leaders brace for potential challenges stemming from shifting US trade policies.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness described the situation as a “grave concern”, stressing the need for the region to be prepared.
The announcement came
during the 48th Regular Meeting of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community, held in Barbados on Friday. The review, expected to be completed within three to four months, will assess the possible effects of US trade policy changes and provide a policy framework to guide regional governments. “Many businesses have reached out. The private sector is indeed concerned,” Mr Holness said. “I believe that the posture of CARICOM is that we must be
prepared.”
However, he cautioned against panic, noting that while disruptions are possible, policy shifts may also present new regional opportunities.
CARICOM’s trade negotiation office is leading the review, analysing risks and advising governments on how best to structure trade policies to protect regional interests while capitalising on any emerging benefits. Mr Holness acknowledged speculation about potential US tariffs on Caribbean exports but said no official announcements had been made. The review will examine the possible fallout should such measures be introduced.
When asked whether CARICOM leaders plan to engage directly with top US officials, Barbados Prime Minister and CARICOM Chair Mia Mottley confirmed that discussions are ongoing with the US Special Envoy for Latin America and the Caribbean. She anticipates a high-level meeting in the near future.
Meanwhile, Guyana’s President Mohamed Irfaan Ali highlighted the challenges of rising food prices, which have been exacerbated by global market fluctuations.
He pointed out that in the past year, the cost of cereals, meat, dairy, vegetable oil, and raw sugar has surged — putting further pressure on Caribbean economies that depend heavily on imports.
He warned that 2025 could bring further instability due to climate-related disruptions, rising transportation and logistics costs, and uncertainties surrounding trade regulations.
He cited the recent 20 percent decline in US egg production following an outbreak of bird flu, which led to price increases.
“We’re discussing the impact of these challenges for the region, and important for us is to look at the full supply chain, to look at alternative supply routes, and to look at ways in which we can enhance and integrate our capacity and capability to withstand what could be a major shock in the global market,” he said.
He warned that if Brazil — another key food supplier — experiences similar disruptions, the region would face higher prices and supply shortages.
“These are the challenges that we will face, at least in the first half of this year, and we must be able to plan a strategy that would allow us to withstand them,” he said.
with the necessary capacity.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced plans to send a command group to Haiti soon to help with logistics and coordination of future support efforts.
ACTING COMMANDER ALEXIS BROWN
CARICOM chair Mia Motley speaks during the 48th Regular Meeting of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community on Friday.
4-year-old watches as father murdered
from page one
vehicle.
In an emotional Facebook post, Mr Arnett’s father shared a photo of his smiling granddaughter. He wrote: “Hours later, she is in such a happy spirit, too young to know what’s going on. God saved this little angel for me. My son surely did his best with her his lil twin.”
Footage showed bullets shattering Arnett’s window. In his final moments, he opened the back door, allowing his terrified daughter to escape. She paused briefly, looking at her father while the gunmen circled him. He appeared to say one last word to her before collapsing to the ground. The girl then ran away as the gunmen continued shooting.
When The Tribune visited the scene, Arnett’s family was inconsolable, hugging, wiping away tears, and standing in silence.
Minister Arlene Anderson of Shiloh Abundant Life Ministries prayed with the grieving family. She said Arnett lived a peaceful life and strived to be a good person for his family and community. She called his death a “harsh reality” of a young man trying to do good despite his environment not being ideal.
She said he was focused, passionate about boats and cars, and aspired to be an entrepreneur like his parents.
“His daughter was his heart, his parents, and his family,” she said. “His grandfather is out here as well, and so those who you see flocking is his village.
He had a good village. He was a good guy, and he really did not deserve to die the way that he died.”
Police said they were alerted to the shooting shortly after 7.30am by ShotSpotter technology, which detected gunfire in the Dunmore Street area. Officers arrived to find Arnett lying on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds.
The attackers fled west in a white Japanese model vehicle.
Chief Superintendent Sheria King confirmed that Arnett’s daughter and girlfriend were not injured. Bystanders on the scene said the victim was not from the area.
Bahamas Christian Council president Bishop Delton Fernander said the incident shook everyone.
“I was horrified,” he said, describing his reaction to the shooting. “I was horrified that the child was traumatised for the rest of their life. Quite frankly, I didn’t know if they were going to kill the child too. As I said, these are products of our nation, and we must find a way to deal with this problem because it’s our challenge as a nation.”
Khandi Gibson, founder of Families of All Murder Victims (FOAM), said gunmen no longer care who gets hurt in the crossfire, describing the incident as cold-hearted. She recalled a case last year when a man was shot dead while holding his eight-month-old baby.
“Children aren’t safe anymore,” she said.
The killing brought the country’s murder count to 12 for the year.
Pintard says FNM would not let rehires ‘double-dip’
By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter
jrussell@tribunemedia.net
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said an administration he leads would not let rehired retirees “double dip” by receiving a pension and a salary and would publicise the re-engagement of any retiree, providing information about the duration of their contracts and the position they will fill.
“This transparency measure will slam the door on backroom deals,” he said.
His statement yesterday came after Public Service Minister Pia Glover-Rolle said on Friday that nearly half of the retired public servants rehired by the Davis administration are members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF).
Her comment came as the Davis administration continued responding to the backlash it received after she revealed in the House of Assembly that 491 retirees had been rehired, with 480 receiving both a pension and a salary.
Many people described the re-engagement of retirees as unfair to young
Bahamians struggling to secure public-sector employment and those in the system looking for upward mobility.
Ms Glover-Rolle said 213 of the re-employed people are police.
“In some instances, individuals have reached the required years of service but have not yet reached retirement age,” she said.
“The police force has benefited from the experience of seasoned personnel, who have helped to mitigate understaffing in some units, respond to surges in crime, and mentor new recruits.”
Ms Glover-Rolle said people with technical and administrative experience are often rehired to preserve legacy knowledge and temporarily provide expertise in needed areas until the identified gaps can be filled. Mrs Glover-Rolle said over the past three years, the Davis administration has recruited and integrated 2,000 young Bahamians into the public service, with some serving in senior roles.
She said the RBPF had the highest number of reemployed pensioners, with 213. Other notable figures included 24 in the Judicial Department, 19 in the
Magistrate’s Courts, and 15 in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Public Service.
The Attorney General’s Office had 13, while both the Department of Public Works and the Department of Public Service had 11 each. The Ministry of Finance and Planning recorded ten.
Additional agencies with re-employed pensioners included the Department of Education, which recorded nine cases, followed by the Ministry of National Security with eight and the Ministry of Education with seven. The Office of the Prime Minister and the Department of Road Traffic each reported six cases. The Department of Inland Revenue recorded five, while the Department of Labour had four.
The Ministry of Health, Department of Immigration, Department of Corrections, Ministry of Youth, Sports & Culture, Customs Department, and Department of Local Government also reported four cases each. Other agencies, such as the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Financial Services, and Department of Social Services, recorded
one or two cases. In October 2021, the Davis administration reversed the Minnis administration’s decision
prohibiting rehired retirees from getting a salary and a pension. Mr Pintard said the FNM would “mandate a fair, open
SCENES on Dunmore Street where a man was shot and killed on Saturday.
Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
selection process for senior government positions, ensuring that every Bahamian with the right skills has a chance to compete”.
PUBLIC SERVICE MINISTER PIA GLOVER-ROLLE
The Tribune Limited
NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI
“Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”
LEON E. H. DUPUCH
Publisher/Editor 1903-1914
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Publisher/Editor 1919-1972
Contributing Editor 1972-1991
RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.
Publisher/Editor 1972-
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Trump policies keeping Caribbean on our toes
THE early days of the presidency of Donald Trump – and it is still early days, even if it feels longer – have seen a flurry of issues appearing on the table for international partners to deal with.
In the spotlight this week has been the apparent efforts to find a peaceful solution to the conflict in Ukraine without actually involving Ukraine in the discussions – all while Mr Trump insults its leader, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
How to deal with the changing circumstances has governments around the world trying to work out the best approach. In Insight, Sir Ronald Sanders calls for the CARICOM nations to respond together to new US policies.
Among the policies we in The Bahamas have had to face up to is the prospect of the US wanting to send immigrants here who have no connection to our nation.
That request was made by Mr Trump’s transition team before he came into office – and was rejected outright by the government, with a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister saying: “The Bahamas simply does not have the resources to accommodate such a request.”
Then came the prospect of Mr Trump using tariffs as a rather blunt object to try to make the likes of Canada, Mexico and China do as he wishes. Tariffs would increase prices, increased prices would likely find their way over here, and gives the prospect of inflation – more on the price tag, less in our pockets. That one is still playing out.
After that, there has been the funding freeze on foreign aid. The US embassy has stated it is not abandoning its commitment to Bahamians, but the embassy staff can only work with what is made available to them. One conference for women was already impacted, with a $10,000 grant halted due to the executive order. The chairperson of Caribbean Women in Leadership (CIWiL), Robyn Lynes, noted: “They told us that we would not be able to do anything that had the US Embassy logo, or anything of that nature included. Because of course they had gotten the executive order to cease and desist, and so we had to shut everything down.”
The Tribune understands other organisations have been affected, but representatives have declined to comment.
PICTURE OF THE DAY
Then, last week, a new line emerged from the Trump administration that could have an affect on our country.
US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick was interviewed on Fox News –and signalled changes on the way for the cruise industry.
“You ever see a cruise ship with an American flag on the back?” he asked.
“They have flags of like, Liberia or Panama. None of them pay taxes.”
He added: “This is going to end under Donald Trump and those taxes are going to be paid and American’s tax rates are going to come down.”
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) swiftly pointed out that lines pay nearly $2.5bn in taxes and fees, which amounts to about 65 percent of the sum paid worldwide by cruise lines. However, stock prices of cruise lines tumbled.
The Bahamas is a prominent ship registry, but more importantly, we are a prominent destination for many of those cruise lines.
Cruise lines will be considering their options. Pay the taxes when they come, which will push up prices, hit the bottom line or both. Many cruise lines operate on a low price mark – many of their customers may be unable or unwilling to pay more, which could mean fewer passengers, and reduced income. One of the challenges we face in The Bahamas is trying to get cruise visitors to pay more, but many are going on cruise lines specifically because it is a budget option, not to go spending money around the world.
Cruise staff often come from around the world too on a lower average wage than you will find in the US, keeping the costs down to keep the overall price down.
Another option for cruise lines might be relocating its boarding spots and avoiding the US. It seems unlikely, given the convenience passengers have while boarding in Florida, but if the taxes are higher than the cost of a cheap flight, who knows, perhaps The Bahamas could be that boarding site. All aboard at Bimini?
Whatever comes next after this opening move, it bears watching closely. And in the little over a month since Trump’s inauguration on January 20, we ought to have learned one thing – stay on our toes.
T HERE once was Prince who ruled the Land of the Eagle. He was an ambitious man, loved by many yet never totally understood. The Land of the Eagle bordered the Land of the Beaver, a land filled with tolerant, peaceful citizens, diversified and creative. This ambitious Prince was known as “The Orange Prince”, due to his facial colouring, and the Prince intended to make a mark in his nation’s history no matter what.
One day the Orange Prince devised a way to acquire his neighbours land, wealth and people. So the Orange Prince found the nicest hill within the Land of the Beaver and intended to plant his flag, the Flag of the Eagle, declaring the Land of the Beaver to be his, and his alone henceforth.
David was a young citizen of The Beaver. He got up, ate his breakfast and went outside for a walk. Where were his friends he asked himself. Oh there was a large crowd near the hill area. Lots of his neighbours were
surrounding some other people so he went to the front of the crowd. Once there he saw a large man with wavy silver-blond hair, pursed lips and blazing excitable eyes holding a flag and pole of a foreign nation. David decided he did not like this man at all and approached him slowly. The Orange Prince was surrounded by many men in black with their black suburban vehicles. David walked up to the Prince looking at him inquisitively. The Prince looked down upon David with a smirk on his lips. That did it for David. He pulled out of his pocket his trusty sling shot. In the other pocket he had some nice size pieces of rock candy his dad gave him the other day. David drew back his sling shot quickly and let loose directly at the Orange Prince. The rock candy struck The Orange Prince right between the eyes and the Prince fell over. The men in black gathered David and all those who witnessed the assault upon the Prince, taking them away for questioning. Was little David a lone assassin or was there a conspiracy afoot. Within the hour the Orange Prince decided to declare this event a conspiracy led by the leaders of the Land of the Beaver. War was declared upon the Land of the Beaver. And so the armies of The Eagle marched on the Land of the Beaver. David was held for a day and released into the arms of his parents. A tiny child struck at the tyranny of the Orange Prince. A child saw what the Orange Prince represented, recognized a bad man when he saw one, and responded. His fellow citizens of the Land of the Beaver took David’s example to heart and fought the invading Armies of the Eagle. The innocent actions of a child brought war to a land of peace. Those who lived in The Beaver Lands loved peace, but were historically great warriors, which the Orange Princes Armies soon found out. Lesson of the Story: When facing a ambitious man, think before you act, be patient and always ready to extend a hand in friendship. There is a time for conflict, war and peace. Peace is always the better alternative.
STEVEN KASZAB Bradford, Ontario February 23, 2025.
Any kind of rape cannot be defended
EDITOR, The Tribune. MADAME Editor, for too long this nonsensical and unnecessary discussion has been going on about Marital Rape.. Rape, is not, should not, and cannot be defended because of status, position, wealth, religion, color, location, height, size, fortune, or misfortune, weight, appearance, or any type of peculiarities of the aggressors may have, be they positive or negative… RAPE, MARRIED OR UNMARRIED, THE ACT IS RAPE.
The act of rape is immovable, unquestionably unpardonable and an objectionable offence that could never ever be erased, physically, mentally or otherwise.
Rape is an irrevocable, cruel, dehumanising, act. It matters not if the aggressors may be king, queen, prime minister, The Pope, Archbishop of Canterbury, rabbi, president, emperor, dictator, gentile, jew, cardinal, Sadducee, Samaritan,
pharisee, scribe, mortician, scribe, lawyer, doctor, surgeon, prophet, politician, apostle, martyr or saint or any classification the aggressor may lay claim to.
The place, conditions and particulars with reference to innocence or guilt of the crime has no bearing on the charge, absolutely none.
The indiscriminate, cannibalistic, cruel, heartless, uncivilised degrading act of rape, must be dealt with legally, humanely, realistically, and morally.
There must not be any kind of separate or selective level of guilt, innocence or punishment for rape because it took place between married, unmarried or divorced persons, or in any particular room of the marital or non marital room.
It matters not, if the victim is a virgin or a prostitute, the shame, agony, disgrace, embarrassment and indelible damage which remains forever after being raped.
There is absolutely no
difference of the effects on the individual who has been raped.
With reference to the views being expressed by some brilliant minds in the areas of Religion, Law etc…
For anybody to try and create a place in the law for marital rape is Nonsensical and a waste of time.
I am wondering, are any of our lawmakers guilty of rape actions? Could that be the reason why we cannot arrive at a sensible decision before a conclusion is arrived at?
Unfortunately, we seem to have been neglected by the representatives from the Common Sense Association...It would be very good if they would make their contribution to this very important debate which has been foolishly discussed for too long…
All I have to say is, whatever contributions are made, please be logical, unbiased…practical and objective.
HUBERT T SANDS Nassau, February 18, 2025.
Teen accused of West Street murder of Miler Thelamour
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A 17-YEAR-OLD boy was imprisoned on Friday after being accused of fatally shooting Miler Thelamour on West Street last year.
Senior Magistrate Algernon Allen, Jr, arraigned the teenage defendant, whose name is being withheld because he is a minor, on a charge of murder. His guardian was present at the arraignment.
Prosecutors allege that the defendant opened fire on Miler Thelamour as the victim stood outside his
house on West Street on September 13, 2024. The accused allegedly chased Thelamour into his home before gunning him down. The 23-year-old victim succumbed to his injuries at Princess Margaret Hospital on October 4, 2024. The defendant was not required to enter a plea and was informed that his case would proceed to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). He will be remanded to Simpson Penn Centre for Boys until his VBI is potentially served on June 30, 2025.
MAN CHARGED WITH VIOLATING BAIL CONDITIONS OVER 18 DAYS
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN awaiting trial for murder was granted bail on Friday after he was accused of failing to sign in at his local police station for 18 days.
Senior Magistrate Shaka Serville arraigned Joey Scott, 39, for breaching his bail conditions. The Supreme Court had previously granted Scott bail for his alleged involvement in the death of Lamont Fisher on May 7, 2019, on Dominica Way.
Prosecutors allege that
the defendant failed to comply with his court order to sign in at a police station for 18 days between December 18, 2024 and February 14, 2025. The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge. Scott’s bail for his latest offence was set at $2,500 with one or two sureties, and he was informed that he must adhere to the same reporting conditions imposed by the higher court. His bail violation trial will begin on May 13, 2025. Inspector Cordero Farrington served as the prosecutor.
T HREE YEARS JAIL FOR INDECENT ASSAULT OF 18-YEAR-OLD GIRL
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN was sentenced to three years in prison on Friday after admitting to indecently assaulting an 18-year-old woman at Prince George Wharf earlier this month.
Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt Evans arraigned Mario Roker, 45, on a charge of indecent assault. Roker reportedly grabbed the bottom of an 18-year-old girl without her consent at Prince George Wharf at 4.45pm on February 16, 2025. He pleaded guilty to the
charge and accepted the facts of his case.
Although Magistrate Evans credited him for his early plea, she admonished the defendant as a “prolific offender”, adding that he had committed a similar offence just a year earlier. Roker was sentenced to three years at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. For breaching a previous court order, the defendant was fined $200 and could face 14 days in prison if he fails to pay. The sentences are to be served concurrently. Corporal 3738 Charlene Johnson served as the prosecutor.
Surveillance footage shows prisoners urging medical help for man who died in police custody
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
SURVEILLANCE footage from the Central Police Station’s cell block shows prisoners urging officers to get medical help for 60-yearold Hartman Dawkins as he repeatedly complained of feeling unwell — his condition deteriorating over multiple interactions before he was found dead in his cell.
An officer detailed the footage she observed on Friday. Her testimony was given during an inquest hearing before Coroner Kara Turnquest-Deveaux, which examined the circumstances surrounding the death of Hartman Dawkins on January 22, 2023. Officers reportedly discovered him unresponsive in his cell during routine morning checks.
An officer previously testified that there was a six-hour gap in Dawkins’s detention record between his last wellness check and the discovery of his body, describing such a lapse as “highly unusual.”
Sergeant Erica Roberts of the CCTV Monitoring Centre said that while reviewing the footage from the day of Dawkins’s incarceration, she noted that he first entered the cell block in handcuffs at 5.20pm on January 21 2023. She described the deceased as being clad in a dark blue long-sleeved shirt, dark-coloured long trousers and red & white tennis trainers. She said he was escorted by two uniformed officers, who placed him in cell #3.
Sgt Roberts at 10.50pm, an officer instructed Dawkins to clean his cell.
With the cell unlocked, Dawkins emerged to clean the surrounding area, and the footage captured him dragging a barrel while collecting garbage from various cells.
After being returned to his cell at 11.08pm, Sgt Roberts said she heard Dawkins telling an officer that he needed to go to the hospital
to see a doctor, explaining that his chest was hurting.
At 11.26pm, Sgt Roberts observed an officer entering the cell block, during which other prisoners informed him that Dawkins required hospitalisation. When the officer enquired about his condition, Dawkins replied that he was vomiting. During this exchange, Sgt Roberts observed Dawkins vomiting again.
The officer then asked Dawkins his name and said he would check back on him later before leaving the cell block.
Sgt Roberts said that the officer returned at 11.31pm and once more asked Dawkins his name. After providing it, Dawkins was heard saying that he felt bad. The officer assured him that he would try to get a unit to take him to hospital.
At 1.26am, Sgt Roberts said she saw a male officer enter the cell block and ask Dawkins why he was sweating and if he was alright. She said the officer then opened the cell, and Dawkins stumbled out. In the footage, the officer asked Dawkins if he could walk and if he was alright, but Dawkins responded no.
Sgt Roberts observed Dawins lean against a hallway wall as if unable to support his own weight. The officer asked him if he could make it to the bathroom and whether he came to the station in that condition; Dawkins replied no to both questions. As Dawkins made his way towards the bathroom, Sgt Roberts heard him saying: “My pressure high man, that’s what happen.”
The officer then asked Dawkins if he had taken his pressure tablets, to which he responded yes. However, when the officer asked if there was anyone he could call to bring his tablets, Dawkins said no.
Sgt Roberts said that two officers assisted Dawkins to the bathroom.
While there, Dawkins requested water, and the footage shows the officers providing it. On his return to his cell, the officers continued to assist Dawkins, who was observed shaking uncontrollably and appearing disoriented, leaning on the wall for support.
After Dawkins finally returned to his cell and the officers left the cell block, Sgt Roberts said the footage captured him screaming:
“Oh lord, oh lord” and “Oh lord, please help me.”
The following morning at 7.49am, Sgt Roberts observed an officer returning to the cell; the officer entered, realised something was wrong, and then left to retrieve a police sergeant who also entered the cell.
Dr Kiko Bridgewater, the forensic pathologist, testified that the cause of death was sudden cardiac death. He explained that Dawkins had an enlarged heart and suffered from atherosclerotic coronary artery disease with cardiomegaly, a condition involving the hardening and narrowing of the heart’s blood vessels.
Dr Bridgewater performed Dawkins’s autopsy on January 30 2023, and Delton Fernander identified the deceased.
While Dr Bridgewater noted that Dawkins had a couple of abrasions on his body, including his lips, he said there were no significant external injuries or evidence of medical intervention. He also noted that Dawkins was found lying facedown while in police custody.
Angelo Whitfield served as the evidence marshal.
Environmental Management Plan released two days after launch as activists call for the EIA
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net
A SPACEX environmental report concluded that booster landings in The Bahamas will have no lasting impact on marine life, air quality, or water pollution. However, activists had previously called for a separate report that has not yet been released.
The Environmental Management Plan (EMP), released last Thursday, outlines SpaceX’s strategy for monitoring and mitigating environmental risks as the company prepares for 19 more Falcon 9 rocket booster landings in Exuma Sound.
It was released two days after The Bahamas became the first country outside the United States to host a SpaceX booster recovery, following calls for greater transparency about the project. The Davis administration also released an environment baseline assessment for the project last week.
According to the EMP, the booster’s return would not disturb the seafloor or disrupt marine ecosystems, as the designated landing area is an offshore deep-water zone with sandy seabeds and occasional seagrass meadows.
A marine traffic survey found low vessel activity in the area, reducing the likelihood of conflicts with commercial or recreational boats. In the worst-case scenario, where an anomaly causes the booster to break apart, up to 300 gallons of liquid propellant could be released into the ocean. However, SpaceX deemed this a negligible hazard, stating that most of the fuel would either combust, disperse into the atmosphere, or dissolve quickly in the water.
The EMP also forecasted that a sonic boom similar to a clap of thunder may be heard for less than a second in parts of The Bahamas during landings. It noted that noise exposure for marine life would be brief and that the booster’s landing burn, expected to generate 100-110 decibels, would not exceed safe exposure limits for humans or animals.
To address concerns about marine debris, SpaceX said a recovery team would salvage any
floating wreckage. If some pieces cannot be retrieved, they will be safely sunk at sea. SpaceX also ruled out concerns about air pollution, stating that its liquid-fueled engines produce only carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, water vapour, and particulates, with no significant nitrogen oxides or sulphur emissions. Unlike solid rocket motors, which create harmful exhaust byproducts, the Falcon 9’s kerosene-based fuel was described as
cleaner-burning.
While the EMP provides a detailed assessment of environmental impacts and mitigation plans, it is not a substitute for a full EIA, a process that typically involves broader stakeholder consultation, independent reviews, and a deeper analysis of longterm risks.
Environmental groups had previously called for the release of an Environment Impact Assessment
(EIA), and with 19 more booster recoveries planned, it remains to be seen whether those calls will continue.
In a letter to Tourism Minister Chester Cooper before the EMP’s release, organisations such as the Bahamas Reef Environmental Educational Foundation (BREEF), Friends of the Environment, and EarthCare requested the publication of an EIA, economic
impact studies, and details on government oversight of the project. The Environmental Baseline Statement (EBS), submitted last March by BRON Ltd. on behalf of SpaceX, was also referenced in the EMP However, an EBS differs from an EIA, as it compiles existing environmental data rather than assessing long-term risks and proposing extensive mitigation strategies.
SPACEX Falcon 9 rocket returning to a landing pad at sea in The Bahamas last Tuesday.
Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
CARICOM nations should respond together to new American policies
TWO executive orders issued by US President Donald Trump have sparked concern across the Caribbean, much as they have in Central America and beyond. One mandates the removal of US, while the other shutters the US Agency for International Development (USAID), an institution that has long been a symbol of American foreign assistance.
The alarm within the 14 independent Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations arises from the belief that they will suddenly face an influx of deported nationals from the US, many perceived as hardened criminals. This prospect raises concerns among governments and
By SIR RONALD SANDERS
citizens alike about their capacity to absorb these returnees. However, as this commentary will later illustrate, this problem may be more imagined than real.
Another source of anxiety stems from the recent actions of the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, which has closed down USAID— an agency established in
1961 by President John F Kennedy to provide aid and development assistance to foreign nations. In reality, apart from Jamaica, USAID’s role in CARICOM has not been significant for many years, as will be detailed later in this commentary.
Dealing first with the removal or deportation of non-detained CARICOM nationals in the US. These
CARICOM nationals are not hardened criminals. If they were, they would be detained, not “nondetained”. All of them would be classified as having broken US law and, in that sense, to have committed crimes. Among these crimes would be remaining in the US beyond the time that their visas allowed, or for offences committed while they were in the US illegally. Among these offences would be possession of prohibited drugs or being arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
The deportation of such individuals is not a recent development; it has been an ongoing practice since the Obama administration. Governments have been compelled to accept their deported nationals or face the prospect of tighter visa issuance restrictions for all their citizens, including businesspersons and government officials. This policy did not commence with President Trump’s tenure; it has been in place for over a decade.
The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) faces a significant challenge: while they possess lists of individuals residing illegally in the US, compiled from immigration records and law enforcement encounters, they often lack precise information on these individuals’ whereabouts. Moreover, even if apprehended, ICE does not have sufficient facilities to detain all of them. This logistical reality means that mass deportations are not feasible, and any removal process will be gradual.
Among the nearly 1.5 million individuals identified for deportation, CARICOM nationals account for 42,289 cases, with Haiti comprising 32,363 and Jamaica 5,120. The remaining 4,856 are distributed among the other
12 CARICOM countries. Importantly, these individuals cannot be deported all at once; each must be located, apprehended, brought before a court, and detained until repatriation. Moreover, ICE’s priorities lie elsewhere. Countries like Honduras (261,651 non-detained individuals), Guatemala (253,413), Mexico (252,044), and El Salvador (203,822) have far higher numbers of undocumented nationals in the US Since President Trump’s second-term inauguration on January 20, mass deportations have targeted these nations: Mexico (4,094), Colombia (306), Guatemala (265), and Ecuador (80). Notably, these 4,856 individuals were already in detention awaiting removal. CARICOM countries have the opportunity to proactively plan for the return of their nationals. Governments should initiate these plans now to prevent strain on social welfare systems and rising unemployment. Additionally, while recognising the US administration’s right to deport illegal immigrants— an action they themselves undertake—CARICOM nations must insist that this process is conducted lawfully, with respect for human dignity and without discrimination.
Regarding the closure of USAID and its impact on CARICOM countries:
In the 2023 fiscal year, USAID disbursed approximately $44 billion across 160 countries and regions worldwide. Ukraine was the top recipient, receiving over $16 billion. Israel received more than $2.2 billion, while Ethiopia and Jordan each received over $1 billion. Other major beneficiaries included Somalia, Afghanistan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In contrast, CARICOM countries were not significant recipients of USAID funds.
In 2023, US assistance to CARICOM countries, including contributions from USAID, totalled approximately $456.2m - representing just about 1% of USAID’s total disbursements that year and less than 0.1% of the total aid programme of the US government. Haiti was the primary beneficiary, receiving $393.8m. Jamaica followed with $26m, and Belize with $19.8m. Beyond these, US assistance contributions sharply declined: Dominica received $86,000; Suriname, $371,000; St Vincent and the Grenadines, $474,000; and Antigua and Barbuda, $558,000. Notably, the aid to Antigua and Barbuda was specifically allocated for combating drug trafficking, primarily targeting narcotics destined for the US market. Therefore, while USAID’s assistance has been valuable, it was not invaluable; nor was it evenly distributed—some countries benefited more than others. Caribbean leaders in government, the private sector, and the labour movement should now adjust their strategies to address the closure of the USAID agency, and any meaningful assistance it may have provided.
The shuttering of USAID as an agency does not mean aid from the US will end. However, with the resources and functioning of USAID being transferred to the US State Department, the disbursement of aid will become more political than in the past.
But it should be noted that in 2023, the US benefited from a trade surplus of $7.45 billion with CARICOM countries. This indicates that CARICOM nations effectively financed the $456.2m they received in US aid through their substantial purchases of US goods, accounting for over 60 percent of their imports.
The trade and aid figures underscore that CARICOM counties have room for negotiating a continuing mutually beneficial relationship between the US and CARICOM countries, provided they act together.
The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the US and the OAS. The views expressed are entirely his own. Responses and
World View
PRESIDENT Donald Trump speaks at the Governors Working Session in the State Dining Room of the White House in Washington, Friday, Feb. 21, 2025.
Photo: AP
Illuminating pathways:
Eleuthera’s job readiness programme sparks transformation
AS Eleuthera native Kristanna Shantor Sands watched her cousin and his wife diligently complete their assignments for University of The Bahamas’ (UB) Leading Light Programme (LLP), a realisation struck her — this was more than just a training initiative. It was a gateway to new possibilities in the booming tourism industry.
“My cousin Teran and his wife Reshanda took the first session, and as they did their homework, I was intrigued and wanted to learn a bit more,” recalled Kristanna, one of 56 Eleutherans who graduated from the LLP in January. “They expressed where they learned how to refresh their resumes and do all kinds of fun stuff. So, when it came back around the second time, I enrolled in the programme with hopes of gaining more knowledge than I have now.”
Her instinct proved right. Today, as an LLP alumna and the head chef at Keisha’s Bar and Restaurant in Waterford, Kristanna has gained the confidence and expertise to thrive as a leader in Eleuthera’s evolving economy. She is now part of a pioneering group of over 120 graduates from the LLP, many of whom have experienced growth in their careers, professional skills, and
GAIN AN EDGE
self-confidence. A game-changer for tourism professionals
“The programme was very beneficial,” said Dania Anderson, a tour guide with Princess Cays Resort. “I do implore others to participate seeing as it’ll give you hands-on experience into getting connected with the tourism industry, not only dealing with guests directly, but indirectly, also dealing with co-workers.
“I do look forward to seeing any other programmes UB and the Disney Light programme have to offer, and I will definitely be there.”
Eleuthera’s economic landscape is undergoing a renaissance, fueled in part by the development of Lighthouse Point as a premier tourism destination through Disney Cruise Line. The LLP is a collaboration between UB and Disney Cruise Line (DCL)— delivered through UB’s Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (CELEARN) department. This skillsbased training programme
is equipping Eleutherans with the expertise and professionalism to meet the high standards of the global tourism industry while elevating Bahamian hospitality.
Opening doors to success
For Jonathan Simmons, food and beverage manager at the posh Jack’s Bay Club, Northpoint Restaurant and Bar at Davis Harbour Marina, the learning experience was transformative.
“This would be my first tertiary (academic experience), which is why I wanted to take part in it,” said Jonathan. “It was free, so I said let me just dive into it. This is what I was waiting for, actually: to get that certificate of completion that indicates you’ve done the work, you came here, and you made it happen. I’m excited about it.
“It’s something I’ve always been wanting to do —complete a tertiary course — and I want to continue moving, continue doing it, whatever else comes along. I’m excited about it, overwhelmed — I’m thrilled.”
Elevating Eleuthera through education
The overwhelmingly positive response to the programme underscores UB’s growing reputation as the leading institution for continuing education and professional development in The Bahamas. CeLEARN is steadfast in its mission to empower adult learners with knowledge, skills, and career opportunities that elevate communities.
“We were pleased to have partnered with Disney Cruise Lines in this initiative,” said Mrs. Lottis Shearer-Knowles, Interim Dean of CeLEARN. “We knew the response from students would be positive, but we had no idea the impact would be so tremendous among the residents of Eleuthera. Students came from as far as Upper Bogue to Bannerman Town to participate, many of whom got promotions and employment opportunities upon completion.
“We hope that they were inspired to continue their studies at University of The Bahamas.”
From culinary professionals to tour guides and hospitality managers, Eleutherans are proving that with access to education and training, they can lead the way in the tourism
sector. As the waves of progress continue to rise in Eleuthera, the Leading Light Programme is ensuring that its people are ready to ride the tide of opportunity to a brighter future.
THE OCEAN Hole Blue Hole, in Rock Sound, Eleuthera, captured with the DJI Mavic Air 2 drone.
Photo: Eric Rose
KRISTIANNA Sands (at right) gladly displays her certificate along with another graduate (at left) and one of the instructors for the programme Kandice Weech (centre).
DANIA Anderson (centre) accepts her certificate from Joseph Gaskins, Jr, representing Disney Cruiseline, and Lottis Knowles, Dean (interim) of CeLEARN at UB.
JONATHAN Simmons (centre) proudly accepts his certificate at the Leading Light graduation ceremony held in Rock Sound, Eleuthera.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2025
Many questions raised over rehired retirees
By MALCOLM STRACHAN
THE announcement last week that nearly 500 retired people have been re-employed by the government could be dismissed as a gotcha moment in politics – but it actually has deep ramifications across our society.
The news came as a response to questions tabled by the FNM in the House of Assembly – and let us pause for a moment to both consider that we may not have learned this otherwise and respect the function of questions being asked by the Opposition in the House, whichever stripe of government is in office. No question, no answer. Credit too to Pia GloverRolle for actually answering the question and not ducking it like some others have done.
A total of 491 retired public servants have been rehired by the Davis administration, of which 98 percent are receiving a salary in addition to the pension they draw from their retirement. Double dipping, as Dr Duane Sands noted in a voice note last week.
Why can they receive both? Well, in October 2021, the Cabinet reversed a position under the Minnis administration that ruled that retirees could not receive both a pension and a salary.
So this administration turned that around and then proceeded to hire nearly 500 people who would be a double burden on the Treasury.
She said: “A human resource structure has to have succession planning, it has to have clearly identified understudies, there has to be the pouring in of institutional knowledge from the persons that attrition out to the persons that remain in the system. That has not happened in our government agencies across the service and that is something that we have been working on in the past three years.”
She added that reengaged retirees serve as consultants, passing on their expertise and experience, and that two ministries have submitted succession plans. But hang on – do the numbers back that up?
In a press release on Friday, the Ministry of Labour and Public Service put some more details on the numbers – and the biggest sector by far for rehired public servants is the Royal Bahamas Police Force.
A total of 213 retired officers have been reemployed, said to have “helped to mitigate understaffing in some units, respond to surges in crime, and mentor new recruits”.
The police force has always had a steady pattern of recruitment, and a more sure knowledge of the period of service officers are likely to have.
What is the reason for hiring so many? Mrs Glover-Rolle talked about poor human resource management, saying there was a “hollow middle” caused by a lack of promotions and training.
number of lawyers in the population – why is it that these departments have not been able to take advantage of that fact?
One of the retired staff members to have been brought back was William Pratt, as immigration director. This was despite opposition from the Bahamas Customs Immigration and Allied Workers Union contesting the appointment, arguing that immigration officers cannot be contract workers. Last year, Immigration Minister Alfred Sears would not say when Mr Pratt would be replaced, saying it would be inappropriate to discuss specific personnel matters.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell was as bombastic as you would expect in the face of stories about rehires. He said that the workforce is growing older, with “a shortage of young labour”. He went so far as to blame the epidemics of HIV and cocaine in the 80s and 90s, saying: “Many grandparents had to raise their grandchildren. They had to remortgage their houses, and pay school fees, and when they came up to retirement they were still owing bills. So the public policy decision had to be to make sure these parents could raise their grandchildren.”
So which is it? Is the rehiring down to a public policy decision to help cover the costs of the drug years or is it down to poor succession planning?
Incidentally, Mr Mitch ell’s ministry, Foreign Affairs and Public Service, is the ministry with the highest number of retirees who have been rehired, with 15.
The suggestion that there is a shortage of labour is also one that the private sector often gets criticised for when it seeks to hire staff on work permits to make up for the shortfall.
Businesses face questions over who the nominated successor to a staff member on a work permit is, even if that designated successor has no actual interest in the role.
Meanwhile, in the public service, it seems, there is actually a financial incentive in failing to ensure your successor is trained properly. If there is no successor, you might get to come back on a juicy contract while still drawing your pension.
And in the process of bringing you back, a would-be successor is blocked again from gaining the experience that they need in the role.
Now if these returning staff members were being brought in for three months, say, specifically to train and work beside their successor to pass on specific knowledge of the role, you could see that.
But these are people being brought in with, as in the example of Mr Pratt, no date being revealed either publicly or to the workforce for the conclusion of their service.
The statement issued on Friday made much of the fact that the government has also hired 2,000 young Bahamians, though no age was given for the definition of young. Still, for the retired recruits to make up about a quarter as much as the new recruits still suggests an imbalance in the recruitment process.
Some more detail on the number of people in each department would be useful too, expressing the number of rehired workers as a percentage of the total staff. For example, the Ministry of Health has four rehired retirees, while the Office of the Prime Minister has six – what is each of those as a percentage of their respective workforces?
If the next generation of officers is not ready, that is an indictment on the generation that went before them. It is up to all of us to prepare for what happens after we have gone. We never truly know the hour and the day we might be gone forever, and we should ensure others can carry on in our stead. By saying the next set of leaders is not ready, it prompts the question –who will train the set after that? And after that?
These statistics have opened up a host of further questions – while showing exactly the reason why our Parliamentary processes are so important.
LABOUR MINISTER PIA GLOVER-ROLLE