A Man arrested by police last Friday evening during a clash between residents of Hospital Road and police officers from the Special Service Unit, was on Monday granted bail in the sum of $6,500 cash or suitable surety. Reporting conditions were also part of the provisions of the bail granted.
Donnie Jordon Charlemagne of Hospital Road, Castries was formally charged with the offences of Resisting Arrest, two counts of Assault, Damage to Property and Use of Obscene Language.
According to police, about 7:45 p.m. last Friday information was received of persons brandishing firearms, and possible assaults with said firearms (imminent gun/gang violence) at Hospital Road, Castries, and as a result a team of personnel from the Special Services Unit (SSU) proceeded to the area.
“Upon arrival, the officers observed the disorder and immediately attempted to quell the situation. Whilst doing so, a male proceeded to physically attempt to prevent the officers from conducting a search. He assaulted an officer and was detained by other officers present. A crowd gathered and persons therein tried to grab the male suspect, in an effort to free him from lawful custody. Missiles were also thrown at the officers and the police vehicle which was nearby. The team of officers eventually left the area with the male suspect, who remains in custody in relation to charges of Assault, Resisting Arrest, Use of Obscene Language and Damage to Property,” read a release from police.
The release further stated that “The actions of the male who is currently in custody and other persons within the crowd, obstructed the police in the execution of their lawful duties. Their actions were deliberate attempts to prevent the officers from finding and seizing illegal guns from persons who were in the area.
“It is unlawful for anyone to obstruct the police when they are executing their sworn duty to protect citizens and maintain law and order. It is also dangerous for persons who engage in such illegal behaviour as the police are authorized in law to use deadly force if the situation demands it. The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force continues to warn persons not to interfere, challenge or interrupt the police when they are performing their duty.”