Antigua.news Antigua and Barbuda Duo to spend holidays in jail; Magistrate says it’s safer that way
Antigua.news Antigua and Barbuda Duo to spend holidays in jail; Magistrate says it’s safer that way

Duo to spend holidays in jail; Magistrate says it’s safer that way

11 December 2024 - 06:26

Duo to spend holidays in jail; Magistrate says it’s safer that way

11 December 2024 - 06:26

(Photo by Dondi Tawatao/Getty Images)

Story Credit NewsCo’s Tahna Weston

Acting Chief Magistrate Dexter Wason took a firm stand in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday, placing two individuals behind bars for the Christmas season, all in the name of public safety.

The decision was taken when Iesha Chiddick and Tony Fontaine faced the judge to answer four charges: two counts of malicious damage and two serious accusations of break-in and entering with larceny.

It is alleged that the pair had brazenly invaded two homes on Factory Road on November 28, making off with stolen items.

One incident saw them forcing their way through a wooden door, causing significant damage to gain entry.

Inside, they were accused of taking a trove of gold and silver jewelry, expensive perfumes, and a staggering $4,000 worth of cash.

Chiddick, a 25-year-old from Gray’s Farm, admitted to the damage of the door but vehemently denied the theft.

In stark contrast, Fontaine stood his ground, rejecting both charges.

The duo also faced further allegations, including the destruction of a wind-up window to infiltrate another home, where they absconded with a metal safe, a laptop, a cell phone, a seemingly random bottle of Coca-Cola, and more than $140 in coins, totaling over $4,500 in stolen goods.

Chiddick confessed to causing damage to the window and stealing, while Fontaine again protested his innocence.

Declaring that their release would only endanger the community during the festive season, Magistrate Wason handed down his decision

Wason said ominously, “I know trouble. The place will be safer for this season if you are not out. You are remanded unless you can secure bail in the High Court.”

Fontaine couldn’t hold back his frustration, accusing authorities of holding him for seven days without justice and enduring violence during his detention.

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6 Comments

  1. I guess his saying that they’re better off behind bars for this Christmas maybe if it wasn’t Christmas they wudda stand a chance jack

    Reply
  2. Before the holidays, During the holidays or even After the holidays, that’s where they belong. They will always be posed as a hazard for public safety, inclusive of homes and businesses. They will commit these crimes at any time.

    Reply
    • That was the object of the exercise in the first place to end up in jail, wasn’t it..?

      Reply
  3. At least they can eat on tax payers money. I hear the Xmas goodies are quite good at the dungeon. Bonnie and clide will just have to ride the good tidings and cheer together. Nonesence!

    Reply
  4. A bunch of them love to use the holidays to commit their crime

    Reply
  5. This statement from a magistrate is crazy smh

    Reply

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