The pilot was headed to Bimini when he hit the birds, which cracked the windshield of the small plane. He sustained minor injuries.
Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Pilot hits birds on the way to Bimini
Read storyA Florida pilot had to make an emergency landing in Fort Lauderdale after he crashed into a flock of vultures.
The pilot was headed to Bimini when he hit the birds, which cracked the windshield of the small plane. He sustained minor injuries.
Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
The pilot was headed to Bimini when he hit the birds, which cracked the windshield of the small plane. He sustained minor injuries.
Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
Madonna to play the wife of former Bahamas Governor
Read storyWorld-famous music star Madonna will play the wife of Edward VIII, the former King of England and Governor of The Bahamas, in an upcoming movie.
King Edward gave up the throne in 1936 to marry Simpson, who had already been married once.
According to some accounts, Edward did not enjoy his time in The Bahamas, referring to the country as "a third-class British colony".
Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A05)
King Edward gave up the throne in 1936 to marry Simpson, who had already been married once.
According to some accounts, Edward did not enjoy his time in The Bahamas, referring to the country as "a third-class British colony".
Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A05)
Monday, February 16, 2009
Argument leads to stabbing death, again
Read storyFor the second time in less than a week, a disagreement ended with a stabbing death.
According to police reports, Phillip Marcellus (Guardian spelling = Methuleus), 27, was arguing with a 32-year-old man on near McKinney Drive around 3pm on Valentine's Day.
It is alleged that the two men were fighting about a woman.
The fight got worse and ended when Marcellus was stabbed several times. He was pronounced dead by paramedics on the scene.
Soon after, the alleged attacker turned himself in to the Carmichael Road Police Station.
Marcellus is the 10th homicide of 2009.
Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
Click here for CBN stories related to the first stabbing death here
According to police reports, Phillip Marcellus (Guardian spelling = Methuleus), 27, was arguing with a 32-year-old man on near McKinney Drive around 3pm on Valentine's Day.
It is alleged that the two men were fighting about a woman.
The fight got worse and ended when Marcellus was stabbed several times. He was pronounced dead by paramedics on the scene.
Soon after, the alleged attacker turned himself in to the Carmichael Road Police Station.
Marcellus is the 10th homicide of 2009.
Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
Click here for CBN stories related to the first stabbing death here
Chinese official has busy Bahamas visit ahead
Read storyA high-ranking member of the Chinese government will spend Tuesday and Wednesday in The Bahamas this week.
His Excellency Hui Liangyu, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, will split his time between Nassau and Freeport.
Vice Premier Hui will visit the governor general and prime minister, tour the Atlantis resort, the Clifton Heritage Authority, the Freeport Container Port and the Grand Bahama Shipyard.
This week will include the signing of a comprehensive agreement that concerns agriculture, a loan for infrastructure, a waiver for visa requirements for persons with diplomatic passports and a grant to The Bahamas worth around $10 million according to officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The visit is part of a diplomatic mission to Latin America and the Caribbean. The Vice Premier has already visited Ecuador, Argentina and Barbados.
Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
His Excellency Hui Liangyu, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, will split his time between Nassau and Freeport.
Vice Premier Hui will visit the governor general and prime minister, tour the Atlantis resort, the Clifton Heritage Authority, the Freeport Container Port and the Grand Bahama Shipyard.
This week will include the signing of a comprehensive agreement that concerns agriculture, a loan for infrastructure, a waiver for visa requirements for persons with diplomatic passports and a grant to The Bahamas worth around $10 million according to officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The visit is part of a diplomatic mission to Latin America and the Caribbean. The Vice Premier has already visited Ecuador, Argentina and Barbados.
Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Illegal immigrants apprehended since 2002
Read story
This table is based on information taken from The Nassau Guardian. The numbers came from The Royal Bahamas Defence Force and were released on Sunday.
The numbers in bold are the highest and lowest years.
This table is based on information taken from The Nassau Guardian. The numbers came from The Royal Bahamas Defence Force and were released on Sunday.
The numbers in bold are the highest and lowest years.
Bahamian politicians on Facebook
Read storyGet to know our local politicians better by checking them out Facebook style. Here are a few with profiles or public pages:
Minister of Health Dr Hubert Minnis
Branville McCartney, Minister of State for Immigration
Perry Christie, leader of the Opposition
Former Minister of Public Works Bradley Roberts
-Guardian
Minister of Health Dr Hubert Minnis
Branville McCartney, Minister of State for Immigration
Perry Christie, leader of the Opposition
Former Minister of Public Works Bradley Roberts
-Guardian
Women accused of stealing from City Markets
Read storyTwo women were charged with stealing $381.64 from the City Markets Food Store at Harbour Bay on Friday.
Cashier Doralee Williamson, 35 and Lindalee Bain, 45 pled not guilty to the February 4th theft.
They return to court on March 11.
They are the second pair of women to be charged with stealing from that City Markets this month. Read about the first here.
-Guardian
Cashier Doralee Williamson, 35 and Lindalee Bain, 45 pled not guilty to the February 4th theft.
They return to court on March 11.
They are the second pair of women to be charged with stealing from that City Markets this month. Read about the first here.
-Guardian
NFL star Ray Lewis buys home in The Bahamas
Read storyAmerican football star Ray Lewis has bought a home in Rum Cay.
The two-time defensive player of the year owns ocean-front property in the Paradise is Mine development on Rum Cay.
The community has named a street after the NFL star –52 Lewis Lane. Lewis is number 52 for the Baltimore Ravens.
Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A03)
The two-time defensive player of the year owns ocean-front property in the Paradise is Mine development on Rum Cay.
The community has named a street after the NFL star –52 Lewis Lane. Lewis is number 52 for the Baltimore Ravens.
Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A03)
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Man sentenced to extra year after running from court
Read storyAfter he was sentenced to four years in prison, a man ran from the court in an attempt to escape but instead got an extra year.
Carlos Holbert, 21, was given the four-year sentence for stealing a $50 bag, a $35 watch and two pairs of glasses, together worth $400. The items were taken from the car of Rose Ferguson in July last year.
After hearing the sentence, Holbert ran from court 5 on Bank Lane and witnesses said he jumped from the second story stairway.
Police in Bank Lane quickly caught him and took him back to court where Magistrate Derrence Rolle added a year to his sentence.
Prosecutors said Holbert was convicted of a similar crime last year.
Police said Holbert could be charged with escape and could be sentenced to an additional two years.
-Guardian
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
Carlos Holbert, 21, was given the four-year sentence for stealing a $50 bag, a $35 watch and two pairs of glasses, together worth $400. The items were taken from the car of Rose Ferguson in July last year.
After hearing the sentence, Holbert ran from court 5 on Bank Lane and witnesses said he jumped from the second story stairway.
Police in Bank Lane quickly caught him and took him back to court where Magistrate Derrence Rolle added a year to his sentence.
Prosecutors said Holbert was convicted of a similar crime last year.
Police said Holbert could be charged with escape and could be sentenced to an additional two years.
-Guardian
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
Robin Hood pays customers to take new bus route
Read storyA new bus route will provide easy access to the Robin Hood discount store and more options for residents of Cowpen and Marshall Roads.
To encourage use of the new route, Robin Hood has committed to pay for the bus rides of people who use the service to shop at the store.
President of the Public Transit Authority Reuben Rahming said drivers are making less than 15% of what they would make on other routes. But he said, "We are confident that with the volume of shoppers who are committed to the Robin Hood brand, things will soon pick up."
The new route, known as 22A, will be serviced by ten franchises.
It will take the following route:
-Guardian
To encourage use of the new route, Robin Hood has committed to pay for the bus rides of people who use the service to shop at the store.
President of the Public Transit Authority Reuben Rahming said drivers are making less than 15% of what they would make on other routes. But he said, "We are confident that with the volume of shoppers who are committed to the Robin Hood brand, things will soon pick up."
The new route, known as 22A, will be serviced by ten franchises.
It will take the following route:
- The former straw market on Bay street
- Elizabeth Avenue
- Market Street
- Wulff Road
- Poinciana Drive
- Thompson Boulevard
- Bethel Avenue
- Mckinney Avenue
- Christie Street
- Tonique Williams Darling Highway
- Milo Butler Highway
- Faith Avenue
- Marshall Road
- Baillou Hill Road
- Cowpen Road
-Guardian
Free rock climbing training at Atlantis
Read storyStarting this month, anyone between ages seven and 18 is welcome to try the Sky Climbers program on Paradise Island – free of charge.
Since it opened In September last year, 670 children have participated through schools and youth groups.
But after February 21, the program will be available on a first come, first serve basis.
Sky Climbers operations consultant Nick Sagar said children who have already climbed the wall are welcome to climb again and so are parents.
Sagar encouraged schools to sign up: "We want to reach out to more schools. It's free and they just need to transport the kids to us."
The program is currently open from 10am-6pm, Monday – Saturday. It is located on the old Club Med grounds on Paradise Island. Persons under 14 years old must be accompanied by a parent.
Funding for Sky Climbers is provided by the Butch Kerzner Foundation. Rock climbing was a passion of Kerzner's who learned from Sagar.
Mr Kerzner's widow, Vanessa, wanted young people to have access to the training.
Sagar had designed personalized climbing walls in the former Atlantis executive's home.
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A05)
Since it opened In September last year, 670 children have participated through schools and youth groups.
But after February 21, the program will be available on a first come, first serve basis.
Sky Climbers operations consultant Nick Sagar said children who have already climbed the wall are welcome to climb again and so are parents.
Sagar encouraged schools to sign up: "We want to reach out to more schools. It's free and they just need to transport the kids to us."
The program is currently open from 10am-6pm, Monday – Saturday. It is located on the old Club Med grounds on Paradise Island. Persons under 14 years old must be accompanied by a parent.
Funding for Sky Climbers is provided by the Butch Kerzner Foundation. Rock climbing was a passion of Kerzner's who learned from Sagar.
Mr Kerzner's widow, Vanessa, wanted young people to have access to the training.
Sagar had designed personalized climbing walls in the former Atlantis executive's home.
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A05)
Teacher accused of molestation resigns
Read storyA male teacher accused of molesting two of his male students has resigned according to a Ministry of Education statement.
The statement said the teacher was placed on leave and transferred to New Providence after the accusations were made. Formerly he taught at Eight Mile Rock High School.
The teacher was arrested and released during the investigation, which is still going on.
Since his arrest, the Ministry has required the teacher to sign in at its head office on a daily basis. Last week Wednesday, he resigned.
The Ministry has been criticized for the way it has handled the case. On Thursday of last week, the president of the Parent Teachers Association in Grand Bahama, Troy Garvey, called for the resignation of Education Director Lionel Sands and Education Minister Carl Bethel.
Garvey said: "Not one thing has been dealt with appropriately by the ministry from the issues at Eight Mile Rock High School started."
Defending its actions, the Ministry said the police force is responsible for investigation and prosecution.
See other CBN stories about this subject here.
-Guardian
The statement said the teacher was placed on leave and transferred to New Providence after the accusations were made. Formerly he taught at Eight Mile Rock High School.
The teacher was arrested and released during the investigation, which is still going on.
Since his arrest, the Ministry has required the teacher to sign in at its head office on a daily basis. Last week Wednesday, he resigned.
The Ministry has been criticized for the way it has handled the case. On Thursday of last week, the president of the Parent Teachers Association in Grand Bahama, Troy Garvey, called for the resignation of Education Director Lionel Sands and Education Minister Carl Bethel.
Garvey said: "Not one thing has been dealt with appropriately by the ministry from the issues at Eight Mile Rock High School started."
Defending its actions, the Ministry said the police force is responsible for investigation and prosecution.
See other CBN stories about this subject here.
-Guardian
Man found at the bottom of pool
Read storyA man was found at the bottom of his employer's pool last week Friday.
Jay Albury, who lives near the home, said around 10.15am he heard his neighbor's pool cleaner calling for help.
Albury and the pool cleaner, Hubel Duncombe, saw a man face down at the bottom of the pool, a broom next to him.
Albury brought the man to the surface and the two men pulled him out. He said the man was not breathing.
Emergency Medical workers were not able to resuscitate the man, who residents said was a gardener named Willy thought to be in his late 40s to early 50s.
Officers at the scene said they will wait for autopsy results to determine the cause of death. However, Detective Corporal Adderley said there were no signs of injury and foul play was not suspected.
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
Jay Albury, who lives near the home, said around 10.15am he heard his neighbor's pool cleaner calling for help.
Albury and the pool cleaner, Hubel Duncombe, saw a man face down at the bottom of the pool, a broom next to him.
Albury brought the man to the surface and the two men pulled him out. He said the man was not breathing.
Emergency Medical workers were not able to resuscitate the man, who residents said was a gardener named Willy thought to be in his late 40s to early 50s.
Officers at the scene said they will wait for autopsy results to determine the cause of death. However, Detective Corporal Adderley said there were no signs of injury and foul play was not suspected.
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
Ex-prison officer charged with recent stabbing murder
Read storyJerome Bethel was charged with the killing of Gary Gardiner, who was stabbed during a fight on February 11.
Bethel, 36, was remanded to custody. He will return to court on March 3rd.
Bethel's lawyer, Tai Pinder, asked that his client be held in the hospital section of the prison for his safety.
Bethel was a prison officer from 1995-2001.
Vincent Peet, the Member of Parliament for North Andros and the Berry Islands said Gardiner's death has been deeply felt.
"His sudden death has sent shockwaves through North Andros . . . He was a supporter of mine but more importantly he was someone who was always willing to help," Peet said.
See other CBN stories about this subject here.
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
-Guardian
Bethel, 36, was remanded to custody. He will return to court on March 3rd.
Bethel's lawyer, Tai Pinder, asked that his client be held in the hospital section of the prison for his safety.
Bethel was a prison officer from 1995-2001.
Vincent Peet, the Member of Parliament for North Andros and the Berry Islands said Gardiner's death has been deeply felt.
"His sudden death has sent shockwaves through North Andros . . . He was a supporter of mine but more importantly he was someone who was always willing to help," Peet said.
See other CBN stories about this subject here.
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
-Guardian
Man accused of stealing $30,000 from Super Value
Read storySamuel Davis was charged with stealing nearly $30,000 from Super Value food store over a 4-month period.
Davis, 42, pled not guilty to accusations that he used his job at the Golden Gates store to take $29,377.87 between September 2007 and January 2008.
He was granted $15,000 bail. His case was adjourned to May 27.
-Guardian
Davis, 42, pled not guilty to accusations that he used his job at the Golden Gates store to take $29,377.87 between September 2007 and January 2008.
He was granted $15,000 bail. His case was adjourned to May 27.
-Guardian
Friday, February 13, 2009
Murder suspects sentenced to 12 years for robbery
Read storyFor their part in the attempted robbery of the Fantasy Club on Mackey Street, two men were sentenced to 12 years each Thursday.
Jamal Ambrister and Jacob Woodside were convicted by a unanimous decision last November. The attempted holdup took place in January, 2007.
The pair will have to be retried for two murders that prosecutors say are connected to the robbery. Jurors did not reach a verdict on those charges.
According to evidence, the club's guard, Emico Russell, was shot in the chest when he would not open the entrance gate for two armed men.
After the attack, the men left in Ford Explorer that was registered to Shervin Miller Jr. Miller's body was found dumped in bushes near South Ocean.
During the trial, prosecutors played a tape of Ambrister and Woodside leading them to the body. But they claim that police beat them into admitting the robbery.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Jamal Ambrister and Jacob Woodside were convicted by a unanimous decision last November. The attempted holdup took place in January, 2007.
The pair will have to be retried for two murders that prosecutors say are connected to the robbery. Jurors did not reach a verdict on those charges.
According to evidence, the club's guard, Emico Russell, was shot in the chest when he would not open the entrance gate for two armed men.
After the attack, the men left in Ford Explorer that was registered to Shervin Miller Jr. Miller's body was found dumped in bushes near South Ocean.
During the trial, prosecutors played a tape of Ambrister and Woodside leading them to the body. But they claim that police beat them into admitting the robbery.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Argument ends with stabbing death
Read storyA man was stabbed to death during an argument Wednesday night.
Police said the fight took place around 9 o'clock in the Cowpen Road area.
Reports are that North Andros resident Harold Gardiner, 49, was arguing with a 36-year-old in a yard on at Williams Drive.
The row turned to an attack and Gardiner was stabbed several times. Emergency Medical staff found him lifeless on his back in the yard.
The other man in the argument later went to the East Street Police Station where he was detained.
Gardiner's sister, Maureen Prescott, said he was a calm person that walked away from fights.
She said Gardiner was hired to work on a roof in Nassau.
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
Police said the fight took place around 9 o'clock in the Cowpen Road area.
Reports are that North Andros resident Harold Gardiner, 49, was arguing with a 36-year-old in a yard on at Williams Drive.
The row turned to an attack and Gardiner was stabbed several times. Emergency Medical staff found him lifeless on his back in the yard.
The other man in the argument later went to the East Street Police Station where he was detained.
Gardiner's sister, Maureen Prescott, said he was a calm person that walked away from fights.
She said Gardiner was hired to work on a roof in Nassau.
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
$8 million of cocaine on Haitian vessel
Read storyBahamian and American officers found more than 400 kilograms of cocaine on a Haitian boat Thursday morning.
The vessel was near Great Inagua when it was stopped.
After making the find, worth more than $8 million, police arrested five men and one woman.
Later, authorities found more drugs aboard another vessel. Police said it also had a large amount of cocaine but did not say how much.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
The vessel was near Great Inagua when it was stopped.
After making the find, worth more than $8 million, police arrested five men and one woman.
Later, authorities found more drugs aboard another vessel. Police said it also had a large amount of cocaine but did not say how much.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
COURT BRIEFS: Stolen groceries, Anger classes
Read storyTwo women pled guilty to stealing $286 in groceries from the Harbour Bay location of City Markets food store on Thursday.
Chief Magistrate Roger Gomez said he would allow the women – one 25 and the other 28 - to keep the incident off their criminal records if they completed three months of counseling.
Boyfriend sent to anger classes
Alfreda Moxey told Magistrate Gomez that she wanted to drop charges of causing harm against her boyfriend.
Moxey, 24, made a complaint in September last year that Jeffrey King had caused her harm.
Gomez said the case would be dismissed if King spends three months in anger management sessions. He advised Moxey to go with him.
Both cases go back to court on April 9th.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Chief Magistrate Roger Gomez said he would allow the women – one 25 and the other 28 - to keep the incident off their criminal records if they completed three months of counseling.
Boyfriend sent to anger classes
Alfreda Moxey told Magistrate Gomez that she wanted to drop charges of causing harm against her boyfriend.
Moxey, 24, made a complaint in September last year that Jeffrey King had caused her harm.
Gomez said the case would be dismissed if King spends three months in anger management sessions. He advised Moxey to go with him.
Both cases go back to court on April 9th.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
102 detained in immigrations raids
Read storyMore than 100 Haitians were arrested in three areas on Thursday.
Raids by the Department of Immigration in the Cowpen Road, Peardale and Nassau Street areas led to the detainment of 63 men, 15 women and five children, all Haitian.
Two Jamaicans and 17 Filipinos were also arrested.
Immigration Director Jack Thompson said the department will continue with these kinds of operations. Thompson said the raids are directed at all foreigners in The Bahamas illegally.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Raids by the Department of Immigration in the Cowpen Road, Peardale and Nassau Street areas led to the detainment of 63 men, 15 women and five children, all Haitian.
Two Jamaicans and 17 Filipinos were also arrested.
Immigration Director Jack Thompson said the department will continue with these kinds of operations. Thompson said the raids are directed at all foreigners in The Bahamas illegally.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Suicide autopsies released
Read storyThe cause of death in all three of the recent suicide cases was "asphyxia due to hanging", according to Chief Superintendent of Police Glen Miller.
Miller said the police are still investigating and are not ready to classify the deaths as suicides.
On January 22, Nikita Brennen was found dead in what looked like a suicide by hanging. Eight days later Leslie Campbell was found in much the same way at his home and Kimberley Miller the day after, also in her home, also apparently hanged.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Miller said the police are still investigating and are not ready to classify the deaths as suicides.
On January 22, Nikita Brennen was found dead in what looked like a suicide by hanging. Eight days later Leslie Campbell was found in much the same way at his home and Kimberley Miller the day after, also in her home, also apparently hanged.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Witnesses changing stories in court out of fear
Read storyWitnesses are telling police one thing and the courts another, according to Assistant Police Commissioner Raymond Gibson.
Gibson said the most recent example was the murder trial of Samuel "Mouche" McKenzie. The case was discharged due to lack of evidence.
Gibson said that witnesses told the court a different story than the one had told police. Theses witnesses will are now facing perjury charges.
"Action will be taken against them. When we find witnesses doing stuff like that, they must be held accountable," Gibson said.
The senior officer said three lawyers have also been questioned in connection with witness tampering.
Gibson said there are various reasons that witnesses change their story, including a fear of attack.
Leander Culmer was paralyzed in a shooting attack that came in the months after he testified against Angelo "Nasty" Brennen in 2005.
Culmer has filed a suit against the Police Force and the Office of the Attorney General accusing them of negligence.
Chief Superintendent Glenn Miller, the head of the Central Detective Unit, admitted recently that witness intimidation was a growing trend that could "bring the country to its knees" if left unchecked.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Gibson said the most recent example was the murder trial of Samuel "Mouche" McKenzie. The case was discharged due to lack of evidence.
Gibson said that witnesses told the court a different story than the one had told police. Theses witnesses will are now facing perjury charges.
"Action will be taken against them. When we find witnesses doing stuff like that, they must be held accountable," Gibson said.
The senior officer said three lawyers have also been questioned in connection with witness tampering.
Gibson said there are various reasons that witnesses change their story, including a fear of attack.
Leander Culmer was paralyzed in a shooting attack that came in the months after he testified against Angelo "Nasty" Brennen in 2005.
Culmer has filed a suit against the Police Force and the Office of the Attorney General accusing them of negligence.
Chief Superintendent Glenn Miller, the head of the Central Detective Unit, admitted recently that witness intimidation was a growing trend that could "bring the country to its knees" if left unchecked.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
US wants extradition of Canadian accused of $41 million fraud
Read storyAmerican authorities are asking The Bahamas to hand over a Canadian man accused of participating in a $41 million fraud scheme.
Dean Sheptycki appeared in court Wednesday, where Magistrate Carolita Bethel informed him that an Oklahoma court issued a warrant for his arrest on January 15.
Sheptycki was remanded to jail, where he will remain at least until Monday, when he will appear for a bail hearing.
Dean Sheptycki is one of five men accused with conspiracy to commit securities fraud; wire fraud; and money laundering.
All but one of the other four men accused in the case were arrested on Tuesday; two in Oklahoma and one in Kentucky.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Read more here courtesy of www.chron.com.
Dean Sheptycki appeared in court Wednesday, where Magistrate Carolita Bethel informed him that an Oklahoma court issued a warrant for his arrest on January 15.
Sheptycki was remanded to jail, where he will remain at least until Monday, when he will appear for a bail hearing.
Dean Sheptycki is one of five men accused with conspiracy to commit securities fraud; wire fraud; and money laundering.
All but one of the other four men accused in the case were arrested on Tuesday; two in Oklahoma and one in Kentucky.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Read more here courtesy of www.chron.com.
Corrupt policemen stop investigation of numbers houses
Read storyCorrupt police officers are stopping subordinates from investigating numbers houses and gambling according to a source within the police force.
The source told The Tribune about a recent visit to a prominent numbers house. After asking the officer what he was doing there, an employee told the policeman he had already "paid the boss".
The officer said things like that happen all the time. He said that in some cases superior officers have called junior policemen and told them not to hassle the establishment again.
Acting Commissioner Reginald Ferguson said it is important to note the difference between corruption and suggestions that the police force has agreed not to prosecute numbers houses.
Commissioner Ferguson has said he is committed to weed out corruption and prosecute officers to the full extent of the law.
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A03)
The source told The Tribune about a recent visit to a prominent numbers house. After asking the officer what he was doing there, an employee told the policeman he had already "paid the boss".
The officer said things like that happen all the time. He said that in some cases superior officers have called junior policemen and told them not to hassle the establishment again.
Acting Commissioner Reginald Ferguson said it is important to note the difference between corruption and suggestions that the police force has agreed not to prosecute numbers houses.
Commissioner Ferguson has said he is committed to weed out corruption and prosecute officers to the full extent of the law.
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A03)
Police complaints unit will have no policemen in it
Read storyA proposed Police Complaints Inspectorate will have the power to request documents and call witnesses.
The group would include five people appointed by the Governor General. Except for one person, who may be a retired officer, policemen are barred from the group as is anyone who been elected to a political office within 5 years.
One group member is expected to be an attorney with at least ten years of experience.
The proposed Inspectorate is part of the Police Force Act 2009 currently being debated in the Senate.
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
The group would include five people appointed by the Governor General. Except for one person, who may be a retired officer, policemen are barred from the group as is anyone who been elected to a political office within 5 years.
One group member is expected to be an attorney with at least ten years of experience.
The proposed Inspectorate is part of the Police Force Act 2009 currently being debated in the Senate.
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A01)
PLP Members of Parliament choose not to vote on police law
Read storyMembers of the Progressive Liberal Party chose not to participate during Wednesday's vote on the Police Force Act 2009.
Opposition Leader Perry Christie said: "We abstained because we support all of the provisions of the bill save and except the bill's clause 7, which seeks to limit the term of the commissioner of police and the deputy commissioner of police to two five-year terms.
"We believe that provision is unconstitutional. We attempted in committee to delete it from the bill, but the government refused to budge."
Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham said he does not think it should be possible to appoint someone that cannot be removed for 20 years.
Ingraham said under Bahamian law a person with the power to appoint also has the power to decide the length of the appointment.
The Prime Minister said that a person may serve as Commissioner for more than 10 years but not consecutively.
Despite the PLP MP's decision not to vote, an FNM majority meant the bill was passed and is now before the Senate.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Opposition Leader Perry Christie said: "We abstained because we support all of the provisions of the bill save and except the bill's clause 7, which seeks to limit the term of the commissioner of police and the deputy commissioner of police to two five-year terms.
"We believe that provision is unconstitutional. We attempted in committee to delete it from the bill, but the government refused to budge."
Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham said he does not think it should be possible to appoint someone that cannot be removed for 20 years.
Ingraham said under Bahamian law a person with the power to appoint also has the power to decide the length of the appointment.
The Prime Minister said that a person may serve as Commissioner for more than 10 years but not consecutively.
Despite the PLP MP's decision not to vote, an FNM majority meant the bill was passed and is now before the Senate.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Spain said using Bahamas beach photo was not a lie
Read story
Spain's tourism board admitted it used a photo of a beach in The Bahamas to encourage travel to its north-east coast.
But the move has not upset Tourism Director General Vernice Walkine, who said: "We're actually flattered because what it says is that our beaches are sort of representative of the best beaches in the world.
Dolors Batallé, the director of the Costa Brava Girona tourism board, defended their decision to use the photo. Batallé said the photo illustrated the conceptual concept that they were going for.
According to a story on the Guardian's (United Kingdom publication) website, Batelle said it would be wicked to suggest that the board had tried to hide the truth.
Costa Brava translates to 'Rugged/Wild Coast'.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A06)
-Link to the story in the (UK) Guardian here
-Link to a guess where it was taken game based on the story here
The photo composite that includes a Bahamian beach.
Spain's tourism board admitted it used a photo of a beach in The Bahamas to encourage travel to its north-east coast.
But the move has not upset Tourism Director General Vernice Walkine, who said: "We're actually flattered because what it says is that our beaches are sort of representative of the best beaches in the world.
Dolors Batallé, the director of the Costa Brava Girona tourism board, defended their decision to use the photo. Batallé said the photo illustrated the conceptual concept that they were going for.
According to a story on the Guardian's (United Kingdom publication) website, Batelle said it would be wicked to suggest that the board had tried to hide the truth.
Costa Brava translates to 'Rugged/Wild Coast'.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
-Full Story in The Tribune here (Page A06)
-Link to the story in the (UK) Guardian here
-Link to a guess where it was taken game based on the story here
Gunmen rob woman of cash/car
Read storyGRAND BAHAMA: A woman was robbed of her money and car Tuesday night.
At about 8 o'clock police were sent to the Gambler Loop area. The victim told officers that she had just gotten home when two masked men with handguns approached her.
They searched her house and left with cash and the woman's green 2000 Dodge Caravan.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
At about 8 o'clock police were sent to the Gambler Loop area. The victim told officers that she had just gotten home when two masked men with handguns approached her.
They searched her house and left with cash and the woman's green 2000 Dodge Caravan.
-Full Story in The Nassau Guardian here
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Police accused of drug dealing
Read storyPolice accused of drug dealing
Sources within the police force say corrupt officers are selling the drugs they confiscate.
On Tuesday, a source within the Royal Bahamas Police Force told The Tribune that agents in the Drug Enforcement Unit ¬¬are some of the country’s biggest suppliers of cocaine and marijuana.
One of the sources said drugs often go missing from the police forensic lab, DEU holding site or evidence room.
In addition, he said, some arresting officers confiscate drugs but don’t report it, pressure offenders for bribes or turn in less drugs than are actually found during arrests.
-Tribune (Page A01)
Sources within the police force say corrupt officers are selling the drugs they confiscate.
On Tuesday, a source within the Royal Bahamas Police Force told The Tribune that agents in the Drug Enforcement Unit ¬¬are some of the country’s biggest suppliers of cocaine and marijuana.
One of the sources said drugs often go missing from the police forensic lab, DEU holding site or evidence room.
In addition, he said, some arresting officers confiscate drugs but don’t report it, pressure offenders for bribes or turn in less drugs than are actually found during arrests.
-Tribune (Page A01)
Claims that Court Evidence ‘disappears’
Read storySources told The Tribune that police prosecutors are being paid to ensure that important files go missing.
According to “well placed sources”, officers are getting up to $5,000 to make sure that cases - including rape, gun and drug matters - never make it to court.
The sources said officers “on the take” have several methods, including telling the court that evidence is not ready, forcing the matter to be adjourned.
According to one of the sources:
“This is the norm. This is not just an isolated incident. It’s with firearms, drugs-you would have files sent, the magistrate would sign the summons, they are stamped but certain prosecutors would hide them away in the office, put them in files that have already been completed or just lose them and then get paid.”
The offenders can earn between $1,000 and $5,000 for their efforts.
The source said that persons are given the wrong court date, which can lead to the case being thrown out when they don’t show up.
The source also said that some of the officers in the warrants section are more concerned with repossessing cars for the local banks than picking up suspects.
He said there are cases of people paying “almost like a salary” so they won’t get picked up.
More corruption revelations are expected from The Tribune in Thursday’s edition.
-Tribune (Page A01)
According to “well placed sources”, officers are getting up to $5,000 to make sure that cases - including rape, gun and drug matters - never make it to court.
The sources said officers “on the take” have several methods, including telling the court that evidence is not ready, forcing the matter to be adjourned.
According to one of the sources:
“This is the norm. This is not just an isolated incident. It’s with firearms, drugs-you would have files sent, the magistrate would sign the summons, they are stamped but certain prosecutors would hide them away in the office, put them in files that have already been completed or just lose them and then get paid.”
The offenders can earn between $1,000 and $5,000 for their efforts.
The source said that persons are given the wrong court date, which can lead to the case being thrown out when they don’t show up.
The source also said that some of the officers in the warrants section are more concerned with repossessing cars for the local banks than picking up suspects.
He said there are cases of people paying “almost like a salary” so they won’t get picked up.
More corruption revelations are expected from The Tribune in Thursday’s edition.
-Tribune (Page A01)
Policeman and stepson accused in drug trial
Read storyDetective Sergeant Weymond Demeritte told a court why he arrested a policeman and his stepson for cocaine possession Tuesday.
Demeritte said he found a kilo of cocaine after searching a bag that had come on a Sky Bahamas flight from Haiti.
Authorities suspect the bag belonged to Jacoby Knowles, 25. Demeritte arrested Knowles and released him, pending further investigation.
The policeman went to Joseph’s home on December 8 last year. When they knocked, Knowles came to the door with his 36-year-old stepfather, Policeman Wilson Joseph.
Police then confiscated Joseph’s cell phone during a search. Recordings of phone calls from a phone registered to Joseph have already been presented as evidence in the matter.
Demeritte is the final prosecution witness in the trial, which continues on April 15.
Joseph has been suspended from duty and place on half-pay pending the matter’s conclusion.
-Full Story
Demeritte said he found a kilo of cocaine after searching a bag that had come on a Sky Bahamas flight from Haiti.
Authorities suspect the bag belonged to Jacoby Knowles, 25. Demeritte arrested Knowles and released him, pending further investigation.
The policeman went to Joseph’s home on December 8 last year. When they knocked, Knowles came to the door with his 36-year-old stepfather, Policeman Wilson Joseph.
Police then confiscated Joseph’s cell phone during a search. Recordings of phone calls from a phone registered to Joseph have already been presented as evidence in the matter.
Demeritte is the final prosecution witness in the trial, which continues on April 15.
Joseph has been suspended from duty and place on half-pay pending the matter’s conclusion.
-Full Story
American must pay $1,000 for iguana, conch charges
Read storyEXUMA: Americans who posted photographs of themselves eating Iguanas and undersized conch on the online network facebook were fined $1,000 Tuesday.
Alexander Rust, a 24-year-old from Indiana, and Vanessa Palm, a 23-year-old from Illinois, pled guilty to charges of possessing undeveloped conch and taking a prohibited wild species.
The pair told Magistrate Ivan Ferguson they did not know the animal was protected. Ferguson excused Palm but ordered Rust to pay fines or serve jail time.
Rust was fined $800 or four months for the conch charge and $200 or two months for the iguana charge.
Bahamas National Trust Director Eric Carey said he was pleased that the pair were convicted but disappointed that they did not get the maximum penalties - $5,000 or one year for the conch and $300 or six months for the iguana.
Carey wants two other men, also shown in the photographs, to be charged. Police say they are still investigating.
-Tribune (Page A03)
Alexander Rust, a 24-year-old from Indiana, and Vanessa Palm, a 23-year-old from Illinois, pled guilty to charges of possessing undeveloped conch and taking a prohibited wild species.
The pair told Magistrate Ivan Ferguson they did not know the animal was protected. Ferguson excused Palm but ordered Rust to pay fines or serve jail time.
Rust was fined $800 or four months for the conch charge and $200 or two months for the iguana charge.
Bahamas National Trust Director Eric Carey said he was pleased that the pair were convicted but disappointed that they did not get the maximum penalties - $5,000 or one year for the conch and $300 or six months for the iguana.
Carey wants two other men, also shown in the photographs, to be charged. Police say they are still investigating.
-Tribune (Page A03)
Cops charge 106 people with traffic offenses in five hours
Read storyOfficers accused 106 people of traffic-related offenses during a five-hour operation at the Marathon and Robinson Road intersection recently.
In addition, police arrested three people with outstanding warrants, one for disorderly behavior and one for threatening a police officer.
-Tribune (Page A05)
In addition, police arrested three people with outstanding warrants, one for disorderly behavior and one for threatening a police officer.
-Tribune (Page A05)
Cable fire stops TV, Internet
Read storyA fire cut television and internet services in about 150 homes on Monday.
Cable Bahamas said a power cable fell on one of their cables which led to the cable catching on fire. This stopped service in the Winton and Camperdown for nine hours - 9.30am and 6.30pm.
Bahamas Electricity Corporation general manager Kevin Basden said a dump truck had dragged an electrical line into the cable line.
Cable Bahamas operations manager Lester DeGregory said the problem has happened before, “around twice a year and it is usually right at that same location, but in this incident it also burnt the cable further down”.
Basden said he was not aware of a similar failure in the past.
-Tribune (Page A05)
Cable Bahamas said a power cable fell on one of their cables which led to the cable catching on fire. This stopped service in the Winton and Camperdown for nine hours - 9.30am and 6.30pm.
Bahamas Electricity Corporation general manager Kevin Basden said a dump truck had dragged an electrical line into the cable line.
Cable Bahamas operations manager Lester DeGregory said the problem has happened before, “around twice a year and it is usually right at that same location, but in this incident it also burnt the cable further down”.
Basden said he was not aware of a similar failure in the past.
-Tribune (Page A05)
Caribbean films playing this week at Galleria
Read storyCaribbean films will be showcased all week at Galleria Cinemas on John F Kennedy Drive.
For the second year, the Traveling Caribbean Film Showcase will feature films with a special interest on children and teenagers from the region.
Productions from 16 countries are featured, including Belize, Cuba, Columbia and Jamaica.
You can view Invisible, one of the films featured, by clicking here.
The mini-documentary features a woman and her daughter, who are both HIV-positive.
It was produced in Trinidad and Tobago by Elspeth Duncan.
-Tribune (Page A06)
For the second year, the Traveling Caribbean Film Showcase will feature films with a special interest on children and teenagers from the region.
Productions from 16 countries are featured, including Belize, Cuba, Columbia and Jamaica.
You can view Invisible, one of the films featured, by clicking here.
The mini-documentary features a woman and her daughter, who are both HIV-positive.
It was produced in Trinidad and Tobago by Elspeth Duncan.
-Tribune (Page A06)
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Customs officer’s car burnt
Read storyA customs officer’s car was set on fire in front of a home in Sunset Park on Monday afternoon.
The car belonged to Gregory Mortimer, who is a senior officer of the customs department.
Police would not say whether they felt the fire was related to another blaze, which destroyed the home of customs officer Roslyn Ritchie last November.
Ritchie’s responsibilities included investigating corruption in the department and customs fraud.
Clive Schroeter was charged in connection with the home fire in January.
-Tribune
The car belonged to Gregory Mortimer, who is a senior officer of the customs department.
Police would not say whether they felt the fire was related to another blaze, which destroyed the home of customs officer Roslyn Ritchie last November.
Ritchie’s responsibilities included investigating corruption in the department and customs fraud.
Clive Schroeter was charged in connection with the home fire in January.
-Tribune
Glass plant in Freeport open
Read storyGRAND BAHAMA: A newly operational glass manufacturing plant expects to be running 24-hours a day by next Monday.
Fenestration (Fenestration definition) and Glass Services, which makes windows, and rubber components, could employ up to 150 people by August.
The company sits on 64,000 square feet on Queens Highway and has so far cost $20 million in building costs, machinery and salaries.
Windows made by the company will be available to Bahamians though rubber components would not.
Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham is expected top officially open the facility on February 20.
-Guardian
Fenestration (Fenestration definition) and Glass Services, which makes windows, and rubber components, could employ up to 150 people by August.
The company sits on 64,000 square feet on Queens Highway and has so far cost $20 million in building costs, machinery and salaries.
Windows made by the company will be available to Bahamians though rubber components would not.
Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham is expected top officially open the facility on February 20.
-Guardian
Atlantis seeks $1.4 million from Australian gambler
Read storyAtlantis has taken legal action against an Australian millionaire.
Harry Kakavas was on honeymoon in November 2006 when he lost $1.4 milling in a single day of gambling. Kakavas made bets of up to $60,000.
Kakavas, a 42-year-old property developer, plans to defend himself by saying that the casino was aware of his gambling addiction and that the debt is not enforceable.
The trial date is set for July.
-Tribune
Harry Kakavas was on honeymoon in November 2006 when he lost $1.4 milling in a single day of gambling. Kakavas made bets of up to $60,000.
Kakavas, a 42-year-old property developer, plans to defend himself by saying that the casino was aware of his gambling addiction and that the debt is not enforceable.
The trial date is set for July.
-Tribune
Click here to read more in Australia's Herald Sun.
Body found on roadside
Read storyThe body of a black male was found on the roadside near Wulff Road and Peardale Monday afternoon.
There were no obvious signs of violence and police do not suspect foul play.
Authorities do not know the man’s age or identity.
-Guardian & -Tribune
There were no obvious signs of violence and police do not suspect foul play.
Authorities do not know the man’s age or identity.
-Guardian & -Tribune
Bahamians looking for help
Read storyThousands of Bahamians have applied for help with food, rent and utility costs.
According to statistics, twice as many citizens asked for help from social services outlets in 2008 compared with 2007. This information came from Minister of Labour and Scoial Development Dion Folkes.
Folkes could not give the exact number of applicants but said it was in the thousands.
The government has allocated $13 million for the 2008/2009 social services budget.
-Guardian
According to statistics, twice as many citizens asked for help from social services outlets in 2008 compared with 2007. This information came from Minister of Labour and Scoial Development Dion Folkes.
Folkes could not give the exact number of applicants but said it was in the thousands.
The government has allocated $13 million for the 2008/2009 social services budget.
-Guardian
Old Bahama Bay layoff worries
Read storyLayoffs are expected at the Old Bahama Bay Resort according to Tribune reports.
Seven of the company’s 147 employees were let go last month due to the tough economic climate.
Member of Parliament for West End and Bimini Obie Wilchcombe said he spoke with staff at the resort last week and heard nothing of planned layoffs.
-Tribune
Seven of the company’s 147 employees were let go last month due to the tough economic climate.
Member of Parliament for West End and Bimini Obie Wilchcombe said he spoke with staff at the resort last week and heard nothing of planned layoffs.
-Tribune
Man charged with shooting death
Read storyGRAND BAHAMA: Don Phillipe, 30, was charged with the shooting death of 17-year-old Dwight Bartlett Monday.
Bartlett was found shot in the head at Pinder’s Point, on February 2nd.
-Guardian & -Tribune
Bartlett was found shot in the head at Pinder’s Point, on February 2nd.
-Guardian & -Tribune
Monday, February 9, 2009
Teacher molestation case in lawyers’ hands
Read storyGRAND BAHAMA: The Attorney General’s office is now responsible for the molestation case against a teacher on the island. ¬
¬
Police finished their investigation of the incident about two weeks ago according to Chief Superintendent of Police Emerick Seymour.
A male teacher was arrested and questioned after complaints by two former students, both male.
Although district superintendant of high schools in Grand Bahama, Hezekiah Dean, made an official request for the teacher to be removed a month ago, Ministry officials have not made it clear whether he has been.
-Tribune
¬
Police finished their investigation of the incident about two weeks ago according to Chief Superintendent of Police Emerick Seymour.
A male teacher was arrested and questioned after complaints by two former students, both male.
Although district superintendant of high schools in Grand Bahama, Hezekiah Dean, made an official request for the teacher to be removed a month ago, Ministry officials have not made it clear whether he has been.
-Tribune
Ice cream may be contaminated with salmonella
Read storyAn ice cream dessert is the latest product to be recalled due to concerns of salmonella contamination.
The Rich’s Nutty Sundae Cone was recalled Friday. Additional details are available from manufacturer Rice Ice Cream company by calling (561) 833-7585. The company said it has received no reports of illness.
The concerns have come about because of allegations by American Federal investigators that the Peanut Corporation of America knowingly distributed nuts contaminated with salmonella.
-Tribune
The Rich’s Nutty Sundae Cone was recalled Friday. Additional details are available from manufacturer Rice Ice Cream company by calling (561) 833-7585. The company said it has received no reports of illness.
The concerns have come about because of allegations by American Federal investigators that the Peanut Corporation of America knowingly distributed nuts contaminated with salmonella.
-Tribune
Pizza Hut workers say they have not been paid
Read storyFormer employees of the Cable Beach Pizza Hut say they have received no severance pay since their dismissal last November.
Workers said they lost their jobs suddenly, after they were gathered for an emergency meeting on November 8. They were then told that the restaurant would be closing immediately.
An employee said they were supposed to be paid by December 15.
Labour Minister Dion Folkes has said he will investigate the matter and that he was aware of settlement negotiations taking place.
-Tribune
Workers said they lost their jobs suddenly, after they were gathered for an emergency meeting on November 8. They were then told that the restaurant would be closing immediately.
An employee said they were supposed to be paid by December 15.
Labour Minister Dion Folkes has said he will investigate the matter and that he was aware of settlement negotiations taking place.
-Tribune
COURT BRIEFS: Car Death, Murder threats
Read storyCrash kills one, injures six
Kervens Forrestal of Cowpen Road was charged with killing Dominic Redhead by driving dangerously on Adelaide Road.
Forrestal, 27, was in a truck heading east and Redhead, 36, was going west in a Toyota Avalon.
The accident involved two other trucks, both heading east.
Redhead died at the scene of the crash and six others were taken to hospital.
-Tribune
Not guilty of death threats
GRAND BAHAMA: Javaughn Delancy pled not guilty to charges that he threatened to kill a 21-year-old female resident of Pinder’s Point on February 5th.
As there was an outstanding warrant for Delancy, he was jailed.
-Tribune
Kervens Forrestal of Cowpen Road was charged with killing Dominic Redhead by driving dangerously on Adelaide Road.
Forrestal, 27, was in a truck heading east and Redhead, 36, was going west in a Toyota Avalon.
The accident involved two other trucks, both heading east.
Redhead died at the scene of the crash and six others were taken to hospital.
-Tribune
Not guilty of death threats
GRAND BAHAMA: Javaughn Delancy pled not guilty to charges that he threatened to kill a 21-year-old female resident of Pinder’s Point on February 5th.
As there was an outstanding warrant for Delancy, he was jailed.
-Tribune
CRIME BRIEFS: Car chase, 6 arrests, Stun gun robbery
Read storyAnother car chase
Officers from the Drug Enforcement Unit chased a green Honda on West Bay Street after at least one shot was fired from the car.
An object thrown from the Honda was later discovered to be a .38 handgun with four bullets.
DEU agents eventually stopped the car and arrested a woman from Marshall Road and two men from Yellow Elder Gardens. All three are 24 years old.
The police chase was the third in three days.
Raid leads to six arrests
Six men were arrested after a raid on a home on Cool Bush Lane and Honey Sucker Street around 3.45pm Saturday.
Six men were arrested after Drug Enforcement Agents found three pounds of marijuana a shotgun and 31 shotgun shells.
-Tribune
Officers from the Drug Enforcement Unit chased a green Honda on West Bay Street after at least one shot was fired from the car.
An object thrown from the Honda was later discovered to be a .38 handgun with four bullets.
DEU agents eventually stopped the car and arrested a woman from Marshall Road and two men from Yellow Elder Gardens. All three are 24 years old.
The police chase was the third in three days.
Raid leads to six arrests
Six men were arrested after a raid on a home on Cool Bush Lane and Honey Sucker Street around 3.45pm Saturday.
Six men were arrested after Drug Enforcement Agents found three pounds of marijuana a shotgun and 31 shotgun shells.
-Tribune
Stun gun robbery
GRAND BAHAMA: Employees of the Grand Bahama Shipyard told police they were robbed by two men with a stun gun on Saturday afternoon.
Authorities want to question Bernard Ferguson of Abaco Drive in connection with the matter.
-Guardian
Police searching for Garin Gibson
GRAND BAHAMA: Police are looking for Garin Gibson in connection with an assault case.
Police reports indicate that a 42-year-old man was attacked by another man, who pushed a handgun in his face and threatened to kill him.
-Guardian
Rasta parents want private schools to respect their choice
Read storyRastafarian parents claim private schools are being unconstitutional by trying to restrict what their children can wear.
Ursula Wells, 35 and her husband William Bain, 45 are raising three children. The couple is concerned because many private schools in New Providence will not admit their children unless they conform to the school's uniform policies.
The pair is reluctant to make use of public schools, which will not refuse them. But they worry about the level of violence and limited opportunities at government-run schools.
Education Director Lionel Sands said that private schools are permitted a form of discrimination - refusing children based on dress - something that public schools do not do.
There are 162 public schools in The Bahamas and 91 private schools. About half of the private schools are attached to a church.
-Tribune
Ursula Wells, 35 and her husband William Bain, 45 are raising three children. The couple is concerned because many private schools in New Providence will not admit their children unless they conform to the school's uniform policies.
The pair is reluctant to make use of public schools, which will not refuse them. But they worry about the level of violence and limited opportunities at government-run schools.
Education Director Lionel Sands said that private schools are permitted a form of discrimination - refusing children based on dress - something that public schools do not do.
There are 162 public schools in The Bahamas and 91 private schools. About half of the private schools are attached to a church.
-Tribune
New Anglican Bishop says stop hating
Read storyRt Reverend Laish Zane became the 13th Bishop of the Diocese of The Bahamas Sunday.
Reverend Zane urged Anglicans to rethink the way they treat others:
“We have our groups that we like to talk about and you know just how we operate when we say; these white people, these black people, these Haitians, these homosexuals, and these church people. We all have our groups we like to despise.”
-Tribune
Reverend Zane urged Anglicans to rethink the way they treat others:
“We have our groups that we like to talk about and you know just how we operate when we say; these white people, these black people, these Haitians, these homosexuals, and these church people. We all have our groups we like to despise.”
-Tribune
Bimini workers not sure they will be paid
Read storyWorkers at the Big Game Resort and Marina in Bimini are not sure if they will ever get their jobs back or their severance pay.
Member of Parliament for West End and Bimini Obie Wilchcombe said he hopes to have answers for the workers by the end of the week.
Power at the resort was shut off in the middle of last year due to lack of payment. The resort’s owner is believed to have left in September leaving only four workers on the property.
Other employees were given $100 each and a letter stating they would be paid money owed to them at a later date.
They have heard nothing since then.
-Tribune
Member of Parliament for West End and Bimini Obie Wilchcombe said he hopes to have answers for the workers by the end of the week.
Power at the resort was shut off in the middle of last year due to lack of payment. The resort’s owner is believed to have left in September leaving only four workers on the property.
Other employees were given $100 each and a letter stating they would be paid money owed to them at a later date.
They have heard nothing since then.
-Tribune
Airport workers want ambulance
Read storyAirport employees are concerned by the lack of an ambulance at the Lynden Pindling International Airport.
Workers are worried that it will take an ambulance 15 minutes to reach the airport from their usual station in the centre of town.
-Tribune
Workers are worried that it will take an ambulance 15 minutes to reach the airport from their usual station in the centre of town.
-Tribune
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Four stabbed; family member suspected
Read storyGRAND BAHAMA: Police arrested a 16-year-old in connection with the stabbing of four people, including a 17-year-old girl, a 24-year-old man and two women, aged 28 and 52.
Officers found the victims at a home in Iguana Place in Hawksbill, after they got a call from someone at the house.
After talking with the victims, policemen arrested a 16-year-old they say is a close relative.
All four were in serious condition from the multiple stab wounds on Thursday.
-Tribune and Guardian
Officers found the victims at a home in Iguana Place in Hawksbill, after they got a call from someone at the house.
After talking with the victims, policemen arrested a 16-year-old they say is a close relative.
All four were in serious condition from the multiple stab wounds on Thursday.
-Tribune and Guardian
Friend says suicide was unlikely
Read storyA friend of suspected suicide victim Kimberley Miller said she believes there is more to the story.
The friend told The Tribune that Miller, 37, did not seem suicidal and that the position of Miller’s body was suspicious.
The Pastel Gardens resident was found hanging from an electrical cord on January 31.
Police Press Officer Walter Evans said police are considering all possibilities.
-Tribune
The friend told The Tribune that Miller, 37, did not seem suicidal and that the position of Miller’s body was suspicious.
The Pastel Gardens resident was found hanging from an electrical cord on January 31.
Police Press Officer Walter Evans said police are considering all possibilities.
-Tribune
Police commissioner ruled by politics
Read storyThe commissioner of police is not free from political influence, according to Bradley Sands, chairman of the Police Staff Association.
“If we want to be real in this society, the commissioner of police is under the rule of the thumb of the government of the day – whoever that government might be.”
Sands said he felt there should be term limits on the commissioner, supporting legislation under debate at the House of Assembly.
He also supported the bill’s proposal to create a Complaints unit made up of civilians.
-Tribune
“If we want to be real in this society, the commissioner of police is under the rule of the thumb of the government of the day – whoever that government might be.”
Sands said he felt there should be term limits on the commissioner, supporting legislation under debate at the House of Assembly.
He also supported the bill’s proposal to create a Complaints unit made up of civilians.
-Tribune
Violent crime down, Property crime up
Read story
Click image to open in new window.
Based on statistics from this story in The Nassau Guardian.
-Guardian
Click image to open in new window.
Based on statistics from this story in The Nassau Guardian.
-Guardian
Village rd police chase and shootout
On Thursday night, a police chase and gun battle left Village Road residents stunned.
A Lexus sped down Fowler Street soon after 8pm. The car sped past Tribune reporter Chester Robards who was driving near the Esso Service Station. It was followed by a lone police car.
The chase continued to the bottom of Village Road when police shot out the front tire.
After that, shots were exchanged that destroyed the front and rear windshield of the Lexus.
It is thought that at least one suspect might have escaped.
Reports indicate that gunfire lasted about 30 seconds and included several types of guns.
-Tribune
Ministry may lower travel costs
The Bahamas is considering dropping the cost for airplanes to take off and land in an effort to lower the cost of travel.
Tourism Minister Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace said discussions are in their seventh month and include talks with airlines.
He said the changes would only happen if it meant a significant discount for travelers.
-Tribune
Tourism Minister Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace said discussions are in their seventh month and include talks with airlines.
He said the changes would only happen if it meant a significant discount for travelers.
-Tribune
Cocaine found at Freeport Container Port
GRAND BAHAMA: Police found 250 kilograms (551 pounds) at the Freeport Container Port Thursday.
Police made the find in a shipping container that was said to contain coffee beans. The container was headed for Europe from Columbia.
- Guardian and Tribune
Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian's website
Police made the find in a shipping container that was said to contain coffee beans. The container was headed for Europe from Columbia.
- Guardian and Tribune
Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian's website
Andros Drug bust
ANDROS: Police confiscated more than 100 pounds of marijuana after a drug bust Wednesday night.
According to police reports, officers acting on a tip stopped to search a car in fresh Creek around 8pm.
After finding four sacks, each with four brown, taped packages of marijuana, police arrested a 31-year-old man and a 27-year-old man.
The men are expected to be charged in Nassau.
- Guardian and Tribune
Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian's website
According to police reports, officers acting on a tip stopped to search a car in fresh Creek around 8pm.
After finding four sacks, each with four brown, taped packages of marijuana, police arrested a 31-year-old man and a 27-year-old man.
The men are expected to be charged in Nassau.
- Guardian and Tribune
Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian's website
CRIME BRIEFS: Interesting discoveries
$82,000 in Sears Hill Home
Police questioned a 40-year-old Canadian man after agents from the Drug Enforcement Unit found $82,000 in a Sears Hill residence on Wednesday.
- Guardian and Tribune
Hidden Cocaine on Poinciana Drive
DEU agents found a bag with 200 packets of cocaine hidden in a vacant lot.
Around 2pm on Tuesday, February 3rd, officers discovered the packets under a rock in a lot off Poinciana Drive.
-Guardian
1 pound of marijuana at Ida Street
Agents found a pound of marijuana in the Ida Street area around 4pm on Wednesday.
Police were patrolling when they found a plastic bag with the drugs.
-Guardian
Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian's website
Police questioned a 40-year-old Canadian man after agents from the Drug Enforcement Unit found $82,000 in a Sears Hill residence on Wednesday.
- Guardian and Tribune
Hidden Cocaine on Poinciana Drive
DEU agents found a bag with 200 packets of cocaine hidden in a vacant lot.
Around 2pm on Tuesday, February 3rd, officers discovered the packets under a rock in a lot off Poinciana Drive.
-Guardian
1 pound of marijuana at Ida Street
Agents found a pound of marijuana in the Ida Street area around 4pm on Wednesday.
Police were patrolling when they found a plastic bag with the drugs.
-Guardian
Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian's website
Friday, February 6, 2009
Lawyer: Man admitted to attack
A jury of nine failed to reach a verdict in the rape trial of Hubert Rolle.
Rolle is accused of using his finger to penetrate a 10-year-old girl on three occasions in 2003.
He told the court the victim’s mother was taking revenge on him because he would not give her $500 for an abortion.
The girl, now 16, told the court that Rolle had given her $1 after one of the attacks. During his testimony, Rolle said, “I never gave her anything when I bother with her”.
Prosecutor Eucal Bonaby said by saying this, Rolle had accidentally confessed.
-Guardian
Rolle is accused of using his finger to penetrate a 10-year-old girl on three occasions in 2003.
He told the court the victim’s mother was taking revenge on him because he would not give her $500 for an abortion.
The girl, now 16, told the court that Rolle had given her $1 after one of the attacks. During his testimony, Rolle said, “I never gave her anything when I bother with her”.
Prosecutor Eucal Bonaby said by saying this, Rolle had accidentally confessed.
-Guardian
Police officers charged with murder, rape
There are 39 police officers on half pay because they have been charged with serious crimes.
On Wednesday, National Security Minister told the House of Assembly that officers ranging from constable to sergeant had been charged with crimes including murder, rape, bribery, drug offenses and stealing.
Read the entire story here at the Bahamas B2B website.
-Guardian
On Wednesday, National Security Minister told the House of Assembly that officers ranging from constable to sergeant had been charged with crimes including murder, rape, bribery, drug offenses and stealing.
Read the entire story here at the Bahamas B2B website.
-Guardian
Americans fined $125,000
William Martinez was fined $75,000 for 39 counts of fraud, including conning the Atlantis Resort out of $44,500 and buying $2,300 in goods from Gucci.
Martinez was charged along with two others, Imran Khan and Carlos Plaza. All three are from New York and in their early 20s.
Khan was charged with illegally receiving $14,381 from Atlantis and Khan for receiving $7,660.
Prosecutor Don Banniter said $30,721 had been seized from the men and that $13,779 was still unaccounted for.
Martinez was fined $75,000 or 5 years in jail; the other two were fined $25,000 or two years of prison time.
The judge ordered the trio to be deported at their own expense once the fines were paid.
-Guardian and Tribune
Martinez was charged along with two others, Imran Khan and Carlos Plaza. All three are from New York and in their early 20s.
Khan was charged with illegally receiving $14,381 from Atlantis and Khan for receiving $7,660.
Prosecutor Don Banniter said $30,721 had been seized from the men and that $13,779 was still unaccounted for.
Martinez was fined $75,000 or 5 years in jail; the other two were fined $25,000 or two years of prison time.
The judge ordered the trio to be deported at their own expense once the fines were paid.
-Guardian and Tribune
182 Haitians arrested in Eleuthera
Bahamians who hired Haitians illegally may find themselves in trouble according to Immigration Director Jack Thompson.
182 Haitians were arrested in settlements in Eleuthera on Wednesday morning and taken to the Carmichael Road Detention Center.
A similar operation led to the arrest of 193 Haitians in 2006, however 179 of those captured were later released after it was found that they had been illegally apprehended.
Thompson said he was not sure how many, if any, would need to be returned, but that he was satisfied that Wednesday’s arrests were legal.
Thompson said “. . . the point is we are doing our work. And everyone in the county is going to know now that, as far as this business of illegals in and about and parading around like it’s nobody’s business, that has come to an end. That is the point. That is the message.
Thompson also said that anyone who employed persons who were arrested this week could find themselves in trouble with the law.
-Guardian
182 Haitians were arrested in settlements in Eleuthera on Wednesday morning and taken to the Carmichael Road Detention Center.
A similar operation led to the arrest of 193 Haitians in 2006, however 179 of those captured were later released after it was found that they had been illegally apprehended.
Thompson said he was not sure how many, if any, would need to be returned, but that he was satisfied that Wednesday’s arrests were legal.
Thompson said “. . . the point is we are doing our work. And everyone in the county is going to know now that, as far as this business of illegals in and about and parading around like it’s nobody’s business, that has come to an end. That is the point. That is the message.
Thompson also said that anyone who employed persons who were arrested this week could find themselves in trouble with the law.
-Guardian
Murder rate 4 times world standard
The country’s murder rate is four times the international standard, according to a report tabled by National Security Minister Tommy Turnquest.
Turnquest said international standards expect a murder rate of 5 per 100,000. In The Bahamas that number is 22 per 100,000, he said.
The crime statistics for 2007-2008, as gathered by the Police Research and Planning unit, were presented in the House of Assembly Wednesday.
Police are solving more cases in every area except murder according to the report. Solved, as defined by the police, means that a suspect has been charged and brought before a court.
In the last year there were less reports of:
Not everything went down in 2008, however:
-Guardian and Tribune
Turnquest said international standards expect a murder rate of 5 per 100,000. In The Bahamas that number is 22 per 100,000, he said.
The crime statistics for 2007-2008, as gathered by the Police Research and Planning unit, were presented in the House of Assembly Wednesday.
Police are solving more cases in every area except murder according to the report. Solved, as defined by the police, means that a suspect has been charged and brought before a court.
In the last year there were less reports of:
- Murder (↓8%)
- Attempted murder (↓14%)
- Manslaughter (↓25%)
- Rape (↓16%)
- Unlawful sexual intercourse (↓18%)
- Armed robbery (↓5%)
Not everything went down in 2008, however:
- Attempted Robbery (↑70%)
- Robbery (↑29%)
- Attempted rape (↑5%)
-Guardian and Tribune
11-year sentence for housebreaking
Henley Claridge, 21, and Teiko Burrows, 22, were sentenced to 12 and 11 years in jail after they were convicted of house-breaking and stealing.
The pair were convicted of breaking into four homes between December 16, 2008 and January 29 of this year.
-Tribune
The pair were convicted of breaking into four homes between December 16, 2008 and January 29 of this year.
-Tribune
Bahamian accused of robbing US student on campus
Diranso Cates
Police allege that Cates, 20, robbed Sean Goudreau, also 20, of his motorcycle at the Northwood University campus in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Full story from the Palm Beach Post here
-Tribune
Americans charged with iguana killing
Americans Alexander Rust, 24 and Vanessa Palm, 23, appeared in court Wednesday.
The pair are suspected of harvesting under-sized conch and killing and eating a critically endangered species.
The Wild Animal Protection Act imposes a fine of $300 and a six-month jail term for possession of an iguana. Violation of the Fisheries Resources act can lead to a $5,000 fine and year in prison.
The pair are expected to return to court on Tuesday, February 10.
-Tribune
The pair are suspected of harvesting under-sized conch and killing and eating a critically endangered species.
The Wild Animal Protection Act imposes a fine of $300 and a six-month jail term for possession of an iguana. Violation of the Fisheries Resources act can lead to a $5,000 fine and year in prison.
The pair are expected to return to court on Tuesday, February 10.
-Tribune
Man, 53, stole chocolate bars
Anthony Williams, 53 told a judge that he stole five chocolate bars from a Super Value food store because he has a drug problem.
Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis ordered Williams to attend drug counseling. Davis told Williams that if he failed to complete the program, he would be jailed for three months.
-Guardian
Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis ordered Williams to attend drug counseling. Davis told Williams that if he failed to complete the program, he would be jailed for three months.
-Guardian
Limits on police chief term
New Police laws will limit the term of Police Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner and establish a complaints staff.
National Security Minister Tommy Turnquest said under the current system it is possible for the police chief and his deputy to serve terms of 15-20 years, which is too “open-ended”. With fixed positions, young officers will have a chance at the top spot, he said.
If the law is passed, officers will be required to retire after 40 years of at the age of sixty, whichever comes first.
-Guardian and Tribune
National Security Minister Tommy Turnquest said under the current system it is possible for the police chief and his deputy to serve terms of 15-20 years, which is too “open-ended”. With fixed positions, young officers will have a chance at the top spot, he said.
If the law is passed, officers will be required to retire after 40 years of at the age of sixty, whichever comes first.
-Guardian and Tribune
Too easy to fire police commissioner
Former Attorney General Alfred Sears questioned the government’s plan to make it easier to fire the police commissioner.
In debate over legislation which may become the Police Force Act 2009, Sears said the reason laws protect the job of commissioner and his deputy is to make sure their decisions are not made for political reasons.
Also speaking on the proposed law, Cynthia Pratt, formerly Minister of National Security, asked the government to reconsider a provision enacted while she was in power. The provision ensured that heads of law enforcement met regularly for discussion.
Pratt, who supported the bill for the most part, also expressed concern about the removal of the position of district constable.
-Guardian and Tribune
In debate over legislation which may become the Police Force Act 2009, Sears said the reason laws protect the job of commissioner and his deputy is to make sure their decisions are not made for political reasons.
Also speaking on the proposed law, Cynthia Pratt, formerly Minister of National Security, asked the government to reconsider a provision enacted while she was in power. The provision ensured that heads of law enforcement met regularly for discussion.
Pratt, who supported the bill for the most part, also expressed concern about the removal of the position of district constable.
-Guardian and Tribune
Female knocked from motorcycle
A female motorcycle rider was badly injured after a collision with a truck Wednesday.
The woman, 24, was driving a 650 Honda trail-bike along Robinson Road when she collided with a 1996 Ford truck.
Police don’t think she was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
The woman was listed as ‘seriously ill’ as of Wednesday.
-Tribune
The woman, 24, was driving a 650 Honda trail-bike along Robinson Road when she collided with a 1996 Ford truck.
Police don’t think she was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
The woman was listed as ‘seriously ill’ as of Wednesday.
-Tribune
Buy dairy & help a cancer patient
If you are thinking of buying ice cream this Saturday (February 7) you should stop at Dairy Queen and get a blizzard.
That’s because 50% of all blizzard sales and coupon sales will go to an organization called Nicole’s Butterfly Kisses, which helps children with cancer.
-Tribune
That’s because 50% of all blizzard sales and coupon sales will go to an organization called Nicole’s Butterfly Kisses, which helps children with cancer.
-Tribune
Bahamians with disabilites should sign up
Persons with disabilities should register with the Department of Social Services to ensure their needs are taken seriously.
Iris Adderley, consultant to the Disability Affairs Division at Social Services, said the more the government knows about the disabled community, the more that will be done.
By giving information to The National Registry, which is a database of the number of disabled Bahamians, there is a greater chance of better sidewalks, health care, schools and support services, Adderley said.
-Tribune
Iris Adderley, consultant to the Disability Affairs Division at Social Services, said the more the government knows about the disabled community, the more that will be done.
By giving information to The National Registry, which is a database of the number of disabled Bahamians, there is a greater chance of better sidewalks, health care, schools and support services, Adderley said.
-Tribune
National Trust will stop private parties at 9pm
The Bahamas National Trust has changed its events policy to stop all private functions by 9pm.
In the last week, at least two letters appeared in local papers from people living near the Trust and losing sleep to loud noise from functions held there.
A letter from the BNT, also as a letter to the paper, said the organization has rented the area for weddings, receptions and dinner parties as a way to raise money.
On average, the Trust said about three private functions are held there per month.
The Trust said it intends to strictly enforce its new 9pm policy, although BNT functions may continue as late as midnight.
-Guardian
In the last week, at least two letters appeared in local papers from people living near the Trust and losing sleep to loud noise from functions held there.
A letter from the BNT, also as a letter to the paper, said the organization has rented the area for weddings, receptions and dinner parties as a way to raise money.
On average, the Trust said about three private functions are held there per month.
The Trust said it intends to strictly enforce its new 9pm policy, although BNT functions may continue as late as midnight.
-Guardian
Police not going easy on young people
Assistant Commissioner Hulan Hanna said police would not be be taking it easy on young people who break the law.
Speaking at the second annual National Youth Forum Against Crime and Violence, Hanna said
“I want to make that clear. We believe there are certain offenses that, when young people commit those offenses, they need to face the music. They should understand the gravity of what they’ve done.”
-Guardian
Speaking at the second annual National Youth Forum Against Crime and Violence, Hanna said
“I want to make that clear. We believe there are certain offenses that, when young people commit those offenses, they need to face the music. They should understand the gravity of what they’ve done.”
-Guardian
BTC at JFK open, Fish and Farm Store open later
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company on John F Kennedy Drive is open for business once again.
-Guardian
The Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources' Fish and Farm store on Potters Cay will open from 7.30am – 3.30pm as of February 16th due to overwhelming public demand.
-Guardian
-Guardian
The Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources' Fish and Farm store on Potters Cay will open from 7.30am – 3.30pm as of February 16th due to overwhelming public demand.
-Guardian
Bahamas book back in stores
Thine is the Kingdom, a book by Garth Buckner, is back in stores.
The novel, which describes life in The Bahamas at its best and its not-so-great, sold out in nine days when it debuted in Bahamian book shops.
Buckner, a London-born Bahamian citizen, first came to The Bahamas in 1977 at the age of six. He now works at Sandyport and serves on the board of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company.
Read more of the story here at www.bahamapundit.com
-Tribune and www.bahamapundit.com
The novel, which describes life in The Bahamas at its best and its not-so-great, sold out in nine days when it debuted in Bahamian book shops.
Buckner, a London-born Bahamian citizen, first came to The Bahamas in 1977 at the age of six. He now works at Sandyport and serves on the board of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company.
Read more of the story here at www.bahamapundit.com
-Tribune and www.bahamapundit.com
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Men attack family, murder father
The murder of Ricardo Farrington has left his family devastated, including four young children.
His mother, Sylvia Ramsay, described the events that took place during the early hours of Tuesday morning at their Laird Street and Baillou Hill Road home.
She told reporters that three men pushed her boyfriend to the ground and asked for her son while they stepped on her boyfriend's head.
Ramsay said the men then came in the home and told her to get out the room. After that she heard a gunshot.
Farrington, who was sleeping when his mother last saw him, was shot in the face.
Farrington was a 42-year-old electrician. The incident comes one week after he was robbed, according to his friends.
-Guardian and Tribune
His mother, Sylvia Ramsay, described the events that took place during the early hours of Tuesday morning at their Laird Street and Baillou Hill Road home.
She told reporters that three men pushed her boyfriend to the ground and asked for her son while they stepped on her boyfriend's head.
Ramsay said the men then came in the home and told her to get out the room. After that she heard a gunshot.
Farrington, who was sleeping when his mother last saw him, was shot in the face.
Farrington was a 42-year-old electrician. The incident comes one week after he was robbed, according to his friends.
-Guardian and Tribune
Facebook photos of iguana eating lead to U.S. arrests
Two American tourists were arrested in Exuma on Tuesday after photos of people cooking and eating Iguanas were circulated on the social internet service, Facebook.
Iguanas are protected by local and international laws.
Two other people were also featured in the photos, which included shots of people taunting the Iguanas as well as severed Iguana limbs and tails.
-Tribune
Iguanas are protected by local and international laws.
Two other people were also featured in the photos, which included shots of people taunting the Iguanas as well as severed Iguana limbs and tails.
-Tribune
Hundreds of cases clog courts
With more than 400 cases on the Supreme Court Calendar for 2009 and only two Nassau judges hearing criminal matters it’s easy to imagine the kind of backlog that leaves accused persons stuck in jail waiting for their trial to begin.
In Freeport there are more than 70 cases on the calendar and one justice hearing criminal matters.
The workload puts tremendous pressure on government legal professionals and leads to suspects getting bail sooner than they otherwise would.
-Guardian
In Freeport there are more than 70 cases on the calendar and one justice hearing criminal matters.
The workload puts tremendous pressure on government legal professionals and leads to suspects getting bail sooner than they otherwise would.
-Guardian
Police solving less murder cases
About 61% of murderers were caught by police last year compared with 70% in 2007 and 80% in previous years.
Chief Superintendent Glen Miller said this is because police are getting less help from witnesses, who are afraid of retribution.
Miller said some defendants and their families are intimidating people.
In 2006, Paul Farquharson, then Police Commissioner, said key witnesses in major cases had been killed by criminals.
Acting Commissioner Reginald Ferguson said the force is “doing great” and that the police intend to make greater use of forensics in 2009.
-Guardian
Chief Superintendent Glen Miller said this is because police are getting less help from witnesses, who are afraid of retribution.
Miller said some defendants and their families are intimidating people.
In 2006, Paul Farquharson, then Police Commissioner, said key witnesses in major cases had been killed by criminals.
Acting Commissioner Reginald Ferguson said the force is “doing great” and that the police intend to make greater use of forensics in 2009.
-Guardian
CRIME BRIEFS: Body identified, Drug Sentence
The body discovered at Pinder’s Point on Sunday is now known to be 17-year-old Dwight Bartlett. Police are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Man fined for weed possession
Eleazor Smith must pay $2,500 or go to jail for one year after he was found guilty of possession of 3.7 ounces of marijuana on Monday.
-Tribune
Man fined for weed possession
Eleazor Smith must pay $2,500 or go to jail for one year after he was found guilty of possession of 3.7 ounces of marijuana on Monday.
-Tribune
Solomon's Mines workers say they haven't been paid
Solomine’s Mines workers have not been paid in a month according to two employees. Nor have they gotten word of when they will be paid.
Solomon’s Mines President Mark Finlayson said he could not comment on whether they had been paid but said, “The point is if payment was late, my thing is – it is always better late than never.
“We have always paid our people and I would be the last person to tell you we have never paid a day late.”
-Tribune
Solomon’s Mines President Mark Finlayson said he could not comment on whether they had been paid but said, “The point is if payment was late, my thing is – it is always better late than never.
“We have always paid our people and I would be the last person to tell you we have never paid a day late.”
-Tribune
CoB wants Earth-friendly designs for $8 million complex
The College of The Bahamas is inviting architects to submit designs for a new $8 million classroom, laboratory and office complex.
The facility will serve as headquarters for the school’s small island sustainability programmes.
Consultant to the college, Melanie Roach, said the school wants the new structure to work with the environment, including natural ventilation, solar power and incorporation into the chosen area’s natural landscape.
-Tribune
The facility will serve as headquarters for the school’s small island sustainability programmes.
Consultant to the college, Melanie Roach, said the school wants the new structure to work with the environment, including natural ventilation, solar power and incorporation into the chosen area’s natural landscape.
-Tribune
Good time to rent, negotiate
Bahamas Real Estate Association President William Wong said now is the time to rent or to talk about lower rental fees with your landlord.
Wong said rental values have dropped 20-30 per cent in the last eight months. Many ex-patriate workers are leaving the country and some renters are moving back to their parents’ homes.
-Tribune
Wong said rental values have dropped 20-30 per cent in the last eight months. Many ex-patriate workers are leaving the country and some renters are moving back to their parents’ homes.
-Tribune
NIB getting tougher
National Insurance Board Director Algernon Cargill said the board is in the process of updating records to ensure employers have paid what they should and to the people they should.
Government Agencies such as the Licensing board and department of immigration are now requiring proof of compliance from the NIB.
Cargill said employers should be up to date on contributions and employee work records. He also said self-employed persons should keep payroll and associated records at their place of business at all times.
-Tribune
Government Agencies such as the Licensing board and department of immigration are now requiring proof of compliance from the NIB.
Cargill said employers should be up to date on contributions and employee work records. He also said self-employed persons should keep payroll and associated records at their place of business at all times.
-Tribune
Pet food recall
Pet food brands Carolina Prime, Salix, Happy Tails and Great choice have been recalled by the United States Food and Drug Administration.
The agency is concerned that the brands’ peanut butter ingredients might lead to salmonella infection.
Humane Society Director Frederick Turnquest said he does not think any of those brands are sold here but that some people may have purchased the food abroad and should be wary.
-Tribune
The agency is concerned that the brands’ peanut butter ingredients might lead to salmonella infection.
Humane Society Director Frederick Turnquest said he does not think any of those brands are sold here but that some people may have purchased the food abroad and should be wary.
-Tribune
Horticultural Society plant sale Saturday
The Horticultural Society of The Bahamas’ annual plant sale is this Saturday at the Bahamas National Trust between 10am and 2pm.
Plant prices will range from less than $1 to more than $100.
Plant sellers are urged to bring plants, with sales tags, between 2pm-6pm on Friday and 8am-9am Saturday.
-Tribune
Plant prices will range from less than $1 to more than $100.
Plant sellers are urged to bring plants, with sales tags, between 2pm-6pm on Friday and 8am-9am Saturday.
-Tribune
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Twenty students evaluated after school brawl
Click to read storyGRAND BAHAMA: Twenty students involved in a brawl at the Sir Jack Hayward High School will be evaluated by a psychiatrist.
School Principal Dr Paula Mortimer said that some of the students would be enrolled in programs on the island and some will be sent to New Providence.
Two students were charged with causing grievous harm after a fight that included 20 students from grades 9-12.
Three male students were stabbed during the fight. They have since been released from hospital.
School Principal Dr Paula Mortimer said that some of the students would be enrolled in programs on the island and some will be sent to New Providence.
Two students were charged with causing grievous harm after a fight that included 20 students from grades 9-12.
Three male students were stabbed during the fight. They have since been released from hospital.
- Guardian
CRIME BRIEFS: Shooting death, Arrests, Questions
Click to read storyPolice discover body at Pinder's Point
GRAND BAHAMA: At about 10.45 Sunday evening a resident reported hearing shots fired in the Pinder’s Point Community.
After talking with residents, police found the lifeless body of a black male who seemed to be in his early 20s.
Police are asking anyone with information to contact them at the Crime Tipsters Hotline – 352-1919.
-Guardian & Tribune
Police hunting robbery suspects make arrest
Police are searching for men involved in the holdup of a 31-year-old man.
The victim was near Nassau and Meadow Street around 4pm Sunday. A burgundy SUV pulled up and several men got out and demanded money.
Some time later, officers arrested three men in the Bain Town area. They had been investigating a car that fit the description just before the arrest.
- Guardian
Men held for murder questions
Police are holding a number of men for questioning in connection with two shooting deaths - Ashley Newbold and Ignacio Smith.
The two were both shot last week just hours apart.
-Guardian
GRAND BAHAMA: At about 10.45 Sunday evening a resident reported hearing shots fired in the Pinder’s Point Community.
After talking with residents, police found the lifeless body of a black male who seemed to be in his early 20s.
Police are asking anyone with information to contact them at the Crime Tipsters Hotline – 352-1919.
-Guardian & Tribune
Police hunting robbery suspects make arrest
Police are searching for men involved in the holdup of a 31-year-old man.
The victim was near Nassau and Meadow Street around 4pm Sunday. A burgundy SUV pulled up and several men got out and demanded money.
Some time later, officers arrested three men in the Bain Town area. They had been investigating a car that fit the description just before the arrest.
- Guardian
Men held for murder questions
Police are holding a number of men for questioning in connection with two shooting deaths - Ashley Newbold and Ignacio Smith.
The two were both shot last week just hours apart.
-Guardian
$25,000 Reward
Click to read storyA reward of $25,000 has been offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of persons responsible for damage to the Santiation Services Pineridge landfill during the early morning hours of December 9th 2008.
Persons with information are asked to contact the police hotline at 350-3106/7/8 or 9.
-Guardian
Persons with information are asked to contact the police hotline at 350-3106/7/8 or 9.
-Guardian
COURT BRIEFS: Rape, Murder, Kidnapping
Click to read storyTeenage girl describes rape incidents
A 16-year-old girl cried as she testified that Hubert Rolle penetrated her with his finger on three separate occasions when she was 10 years old.
The girl said after attacking her, Rolle told her he would kill her and burn her house if she told anyone.
- Guardian
Men charged with murder, gun threats
Three men were charged with the death of Onando Newbold yesterday.
Leshawn Bowe, Julian Johnson and Kendrick Sands were charged with the January 25 murder.
Johnson is further accused of threatening two women while armed with a gun; Willimide Alminor on December 26 and Anastacia Evans on January 1.
Sands, also known as ‘Ghetto’, has been charged with murder before and was acquitted.
Johnson’s and Bowe’s lawyers said their clients were beaten while in police custody.
The case was adjorned to February 18.
-Guardian & Tribune
Men charged with kidnapping, armed robbery
Jeffrey Wilson and Roscoe Armbrister were charge with kidnapping and robbing Sabrina Eizenga on Monday January 26.
It is alleged that the men took her Mercedes Benz while armed with a handgun.
The pair were remanded to Her Majesty’s Prison and the case was adjourned to May 28.
-Tribune
A 16-year-old girl cried as she testified that Hubert Rolle penetrated her with his finger on three separate occasions when she was 10 years old.
The girl said after attacking her, Rolle told her he would kill her and burn her house if she told anyone.
- Guardian
Men charged with murder, gun threats
Three men were charged with the death of Onando Newbold yesterday.
Leshawn Bowe, Julian Johnson and Kendrick Sands were charged with the January 25 murder.
Johnson is further accused of threatening two women while armed with a gun; Willimide Alminor on December 26 and Anastacia Evans on January 1.
Sands, also known as ‘Ghetto’, has been charged with murder before and was acquitted.
Johnson’s and Bowe’s lawyers said their clients were beaten while in police custody.
The case was adjorned to February 18.
-Guardian & Tribune
Men charged with kidnapping, armed robbery
Jeffrey Wilson and Roscoe Armbrister were charge with kidnapping and robbing Sabrina Eizenga on Monday January 26.
It is alleged that the men took her Mercedes Benz while armed with a handgun.
The pair were remanded to Her Majesty’s Prison and the case was adjourned to May 28.
-Tribune
COURT BRIEFS II: Drugs, Assault, Murder
Click to read storyMarijuana bust leads to 2 ½-year sentence
A man was sentenced to 30 months in jail for possession of 17 pounds of marijuana after pleading guilty.
Dwayne Lockhart was one of three men arrested during a Drug Enforcement Unit Search of a Baillou Hill Road home during the weekend.
-Guardian & Tribune
Mother convicted of assault
GRAND BAHAMA: Eunice Frith was fined $650 for charges of assault and threats of harm to Deveron Gibson.
Frith pled guilty to approaching Gibson at her register at Kelly’s and telling her she would be waiting for her when she left work at 5pm.
- Guardian
Three men go to trial
Michael Joseph, Nicole Octelus and Smith Charitable will stand trial for the murder of Shawn Evans, who was shot during an argument in September of 2007.
-Guardian & Tribune
A man was sentenced to 30 months in jail for possession of 17 pounds of marijuana after pleading guilty.
Dwayne Lockhart was one of three men arrested during a Drug Enforcement Unit Search of a Baillou Hill Road home during the weekend.
-Guardian & Tribune
Mother convicted of assault
GRAND BAHAMA: Eunice Frith was fined $650 for charges of assault and threats of harm to Deveron Gibson.
Frith pled guilty to approaching Gibson at her register at Kelly’s and telling her she would be waiting for her when she left work at 5pm.
- Guardian
Three men go to trial
Michael Joseph, Nicole Octelus and Smith Charitable will stand trial for the murder of Shawn Evans, who was shot during an argument in September of 2007.
-Guardian & Tribune
Motorcycle death
Click to read storyGRAND BAHAMA: Shannon Comarcho, 33, died after losing control of his motorcycle around 6.30pm Monday. Comarcho was a resident of Fox Hill.
-Tribune
Bahamas says no to donated breast-exam machine
Click to read storyHealth Minister Hubert Minnis said he won’t accept a donated mammography machine because his ministry cannot afford the infrastructure needed to make use of it.
An American Donor has made several attempts to provide the machine for use in the family islands.
Cancer Society President Terrance Fountain said the government should find a way to accept the machine, especially since young Bahamian women are nearly three times more likely than young American women to be diagnosed with the disease.
An American Donor has made several attempts to provide the machine for use in the family islands.
Cancer Society President Terrance Fountain said the government should find a way to accept the machine, especially since young Bahamian women are nearly three times more likely than young American women to be diagnosed with the disease.
- Guardian
Union members protest signing with shouts and banging
Click to read storyMembers of the Bahamas Hotel Catering and Allied Workers Union screamed and banged on the door during the signing of a new five-year agreement with the Bahamas Hotel Employers Association.
Fist Vice President Kirk Wilson and others were escorted by security from the Department of Labour Monday after protesting that the contract was illegal.
Wilson said the union’s executive board had rejected the agreement and that union president Roy Colebrook had not right to sign.
Labour Director Herbert Brown said such complaints should be presented to the Industrial Tribunal since, at that stage of the process, the Labour Department is only serving as a witness.
Despite the protests, the agreement was signed as planned.
Fist Vice President Kirk Wilson and others were escorted by security from the Department of Labour Monday after protesting that the contract was illegal.
Wilson said the union’s executive board had rejected the agreement and that union president Roy Colebrook had not right to sign.
Labour Director Herbert Brown said such complaints should be presented to the Industrial Tribunal since, at that stage of the process, the Labour Department is only serving as a witness.
Despite the protests, the agreement was signed as planned.
- Guardian
Haitain residents get citizenship
Click to read storyImmigration Minister Branville McCartney and Director Jack Thompson flew to Marsh Harbour last week to hear the oath of citizenship from six Haitian men, who are long-time residents of The Bahamas.
-Tribune
"Bleak” year for tourism
Click to read storyFormer president of the Bahamas Hotel Assocation said the country can expect a “very bleak” 2009.
Russell Miller said he does not think we will see an improvement until the October or perhaps as late as the start of 2010.
Miller made the remarks after accepting this year’s Cacique Award for Hotelier of the Year.
Russell Miller said he does not think we will see an improvement until the October or perhaps as late as the start of 2010.
Miller made the remarks after accepting this year’s Cacique Award for Hotelier of the Year.
-Tribune
Bahamas 55th most business-friendly country
Click to read storyThe Bahamas was rated sixth most business-friendly place in the region and 55th in the world.
The report comes from the Doing Business project, which rates economies based on the time and cost of starting and operate a business.
St. Lucia was chosen as the most friendly country in the region and Singapore received the highest score worldwide.
The report comes from the Doing Business project, which rates economies based on the time and cost of starting and operate a business.
St. Lucia was chosen as the most friendly country in the region and Singapore received the highest score worldwide.
-Tribune
