Guilty or not guilty? That is the question Magistrate Angela Knight posed to those who appeared before her during the Fisheries Mock Trial Simulation on the 27th of August 2025.
In the simulation, Captain Kelsey Kelp, played by Mr. Wayne Rose and crew member Bill Moorely, played by Mr. Jason Kinch of the vessel 8P-2025 NEPTUNE were found guilty of offloading and selling more than 5 dolphinfish under the prescribed size limit of 66 centimetres fork length, or 2.4 kilograms round weight, whichever is smaller, contrary to regulation 9 of the Sustainable Fisheries Management and Development Regulations, 2025. Of course, Boat Agent Davy Jones, played by Mr. Everton Brathwaite, and Boat Owner Celeste Maynard, played by Ms. Tia Chapman of the same vessel, did not escape accountability due to their responsibility for the actions of the vessel, and they also appeared in court to have their cases heard.
The simulation was described as thought-provoking and eye-opening, with attendees noting their surprise at the nuances that arose when legislation was transformed from theory into practice. Described as a tremendous exercise, it was recommended that the mock trial should be a model for all other areas of local legislation, where the focus is to educate and engage rather than to enforce and incarcerate.
Left: Magistrate Angela Knight. Middle: Sgt. Shane Chase alongside Mr. Wayne Rose and Mr. Jason Kinch Right: Defense Attorney Martie Garnes.
The exercise achieved its goal: to educate the public on the new regulations which come into force as a result of the Sustainable Fisheries Management and Development Act, 2025 in an engaging manner.
Stay tuned for more events in our "Size Matters: Do you measure up?" Campaign.
