Former PM fined $500 for Contempt of Court
Former Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer was fined by Judge Jan Drysdale after his cell phone rang in court this morning
The court was currently hearing the election court challenge brought against the UPP’s Kelvin Simon on his nomination as a candidate for January 2023 general elections
From the start of the court proceedings, Judge Drysdale, instructed all persons present to turn off all cell phones in the court.
However, a cell phone was heard ringing during Mr. Marshall’s presentation on his client’s behalf.
The judge demanded to know whose cell phone was disrupting the court. Former Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer admitted it was his cell phone.
The visibly angry judge imposed a fine of $500.00 on Mr. Spencer.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2023/07/03/former-pm-fined-500-for-contempt-of-court. © 2023 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Antigua and Barbuda to Host Caribbean Tourism Conference in 2027
Regional tourism leaders will gather from October 4–8 as the destination prepares to host CTO’s flagship industry forum.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
National Health Insurance Could Become Reality by 2028 as Antigua and Barbuda Relaunches Universal Health Coverage Programme
Government advances plans for a National Health Insurance Programme aimed at making essential healthcare more accessible and affordable while reducing the financial burden on households.
By Cory Wayland
WATCH:Appeal for Information After Alleged Attempt to Snatch Necklace on All Saints Road
Circulating appeal says a man’s necklace broke and fell to the ground during the incident near the credit union.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Antigua and Barbuda Selected for Field Mission in World's First Cradle-to-Career Disability Study
Antigua and Barbuda joins three Caribbean countries for detailed research into support for children with disabilities from early childhood to employment.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments (14)
Anonymous National July 3, 2023, 3:19 PM
Steven C. Mayers July 4, 2023, 10:38 AM
Steven C. Mayers July 4, 2023, 11:13 AM
Mae July 3, 2023, 3:31 PM
Steven C. Mayers July 4, 2023, 10:58 AM
It is very disrespectful to ignore a Judges order in his court.
Well done Judge Drysdale, though it can be rescinded later, it has served its purpose, in that it has demonstrated to us commoners, that in Antigua and Barbuda , NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW.
I am quite sure that the ex PM appreciate s the judgement, because I believe that he would not have aspired to be the PM if he did not have love for our people and our education.
While America is being made a fool of by Trump, I am proud to believe that in my Antigua,, we seek to dispense Justice on an EQUAL BASIS.
Spliffy Leaks July 3, 2023, 3:31 PM
Anonymous July 3, 2023, 4:38 PM
Steven C. Mayers July 4, 2023, 11:06 AM
Anonymous July 3, 2023, 4:40 PM
Love for humanity July 3, 2023, 6:41 PM
Truth July 3, 2023, 6:44 PM
Dragon July 3, 2023, 9:35 PM
Mae July 4, 2023, 10:33 AM
Sad But True July 4, 2023, 11:31 AM
The United Progressive Party (UPP), which Spencer once headed, and in whose administration he served as Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, acknowledged receiving monies that had been donated by former ambassador Dr John Ashe.”