Vendor bonded for selling fish in the wrong place

A woman was placed on a bond for illegal vending, after claiming in tears that she was only on the compound for other reasons besides selling fish.

Beverly Bynoe-Douglas of Rillan Hill appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Thursday January, 25, before Senior Magistrate Colin John where she pleaded guilty “with a cause” that she did engage in a commercial activity, to wit “the selling of fish” in contravention of the Kingstown and Country Planning Zoned area Declaration of the order of Kingstown.

Bynoe-Douglas said that she was over at the fish market when a vendor called out to her so she could collect some money from the person. Bynoe-Douglas claimed that she was standing with her hands to her side with the bucket in one of her hands, waiting for the person to return, and was not trying to sell her fish on the compound.

Prosecutor Corlene Samuel began making a statement concerning Bynoe-Douglas’ defence, but Magistrate John stopped her before she finished her sentence, and told her to “just read the facts”.

The facts stated that Bynoe-Douglas was sitting on a stool on a side walk with a bucket committing the named offence. When a Town Board security officer informed her that her actions were in violation of the law, she became annoyed and began to curse the officer, as she has done before.

The matter was reported to the police, and she was informed of the report that was made against her. The fish was kept as an exhibit, and she was arrested under suspicion. Bynoe-Douglas denied the allegation to the police. The security officer also gave a statement.

In an emotional tone and wiping tears from her face Bynoe-Douglas who told the Senior Magistrate that she “was waiting for somebody”.

John responded that he understands what she is saying, but she must “abide by the rules,” and the Town Board is experiencing difficulties with illegal vending.

The senior magistrate said that he is not minded to impose a custodial sentence on her, but will reprimand and discharge her. He also ordered that the fish be returned to Bynoe-Douglas.

Lawyer, Grant Connell who was not representing the woman, but was in court at the time her matter was being heard commented, “that’s if they still have it”.

“Now we know what canteen has on its menu today,” he added.

John said to ensure that Bynoe-Douglas … does not commit this offence again, she is bonded for six months in the sum of $500; if she infringes during this period she will spend three months in prison.