DOMINICA: Former government Minister Dr. Kenneth Darroux arrested for the importation of gun accessories without a license

Former government minister Dr. Kenneth Darroux was arrested and charged under the Firearms Act of Dominica for allegedly ordering “gun accessories” without obtaining a license as required by law.

Dr. Darroux arrived at court in an unmarked police vehicle after 4:30 pm to answer to the charges.

During the proceedings, Dr. Darroux was represented by lawyers Lennox Lawrence and Jodi Luke, while the State was represented by Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Sherma Dalrymple.

However, before the charges could be read, the presiding Magistrate Michael Laudat summoned Dr. Darroux, his lawyers, the arresting officer, the clerk of court, and the DPP to his chambers.

After five minutes, the media was informed that the matter had been dealt with and instructed to leave the court.

Further investigation revealed that the Magistrate was unprepared to hear the facts and granted bail to Dr. Darroux in chambers for EC$30,000.00. Dr. Darroux is expected to return to court on January 24, 2024, where the two charges will be formally read to him.

Dr. Darroux previously held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Roosevelt Skerrit government until the December 2022 general elections.

Should he be found guilty under the Firearms Act of Dominica, Dr. Darroux could face a fine of up to EC$15,000.00 and a prison sentence of up to ten years.