Suspended cop and co-accused to stand trial in December for alleged passport scam finally
By Zaya Williams
After a lapse of more than 5 years, the suspended senior police officer Ray John and his co-accused, Shakema Charles, are set to face trial for their alleged involvement in a passport scam from several years ago.
John, who held the rank of assistant superintendent of police, and Charles, his former partner and an employee of the Antigua and Barbuda Passport Office, are accused of forging passports through the unauthorized use of Multi Layered Infilling Sheets (MLIS) owned by the local passport office.
The alleged offense took place between October 28, 2014, and April 6, 2018.
Initially, John and Charles were charged alongside John’s mother, Yvonne Nickie, but the prosecution dropped the charges against her a few months ago.
The purported passport scam came to light in April 2018 when St Vincent and the Grenadines police intercepted an individual at the airport carrying five bio pages of Antigua and Barbuda passports, along with other items, including a significant amount of cash.
The trial for John and Charles is scheduled to commence on December 12.
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
Director of Education Calls for Practical Support for Teachers on World Teachers’ Day
Ministry highlights fair pay, manageable workloads and teacher wellbeing in its message honouring Antigua and Barbuda’s educators.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Minister Fernandez Encourages Job Seekers to Build Careers in Tourism
ABHTA Hospitality Job Fair connects prospective employees with employers as the Tourism Minister stresses opportunities for Antiguans and Barbudans.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Minister Kiz Johnson to Attend OECS Human and Social Development Meeting
Minister of State Kiz Johnson will represent Antigua and Barbuda at the 10th OECS Council of Ministers Meeting on Human and Social Development in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, with discussions focused on strengthening social protection and inclusion across the region.
By Editorial Staff
VIDEO: Browne Touts $25M Performing Arts Centre as Proof of ‘Value for Money’
Prime Minister Gaston Browne says a $6 million loan secured an $11 million property that has since been transformed into a $25 million public asset, with much of the refurbishment funded through grants.
By Cory Wayland
Comments (1)
Mae November 14, 2023, 8:37 PM