In a high-profile legal case that has captured national attention, activist Alyssa Phillip and her mother, Camille Caresquero, are facing hefty criminal charges following their participation in a protest near the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The charges, which include disorderly behaviour and influencing public opinion in a manner prejudicial to public safety under the Emergency Powers Regulations, could result in a fine of up to $100,000 and a five-year prison sentence if convicted.
The protest, held last week near the Sacred Heart RC Church in Port-of-Spain, was part of a larger movement calling for justice in relation to the deaths of Joshua Samaroo and Kaia Sealy. Phillip was arrested during the demonstration after police reportedly ordered protesters to stop chanting. Social media personality Jason De Silva was also detained prior to the protest’s commencement.
At their first court hearing, both Phillip and her mother pleaded not guilty to all charges. Phillip has since publicly maintained her innocence and signaled her intention to contest the allegations. “I maintain my innocence and remain committed to conducting myself peacefully as this matter proceeds before the Court,” she said in a statement after the hearing.
Following their court appearance, both women were granted bail in the sum of $10,000 each. They are scheduled to return to court on June 12 as the matter continues to unfold.
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