VG men fined after disobeying last year’s curfew for WiFi connection

Two Virgin Gorda residents who were caught breaking the state-imposed curfew last year told the court they did it to connect to the internet.

During their appearance before Magistrate Shawn Innocent on Friday, the 20-year-old accused men — Domeniqe Wilkinson and Bazakiah George — pleaded guilty to the offence of violation of a curfew order.

They were each fined $650 which is to be paid in one month. In default of not paying, they will spend 30 days at Her Majesty’s Prison in Balsam Ghut, Tortola.

The court heard that the youngsters were at the White House Bar in the Valley at 11:30 pm on October 28 when police confronted them.

In George’s defence, he told the court that he was enjoying the free WiFi service that was available at that location.

On the other hand, Wilkinson said White House Bar was his family’s business and he was told to ‘stick around’ the establishment to deter looters. He also said he used the opportunity to enjoy internet connection while at the location.

Cannabis found

In the meantime, It was also reported that police searched the two men and found them to be in possession of cannabis.

The amount Wilkinson had was said to be too minuscule to weigh and, as such, he was not charged. His colleague George on the other hand was found with 10 grams of cannabis.

George pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled drug and was fined an additional $300.

He has up to two months to make the full payment or in default, he will spend 30 days in prison.

In handing down his sentence, Magistrate Innocent told the men that the curfew was for their own protection, and it was imperative that the laws of the land be upheld at all times.