“If you’re coming in uniform come correct”, magistrate tells student

“Step down and go outside”, was the order given by Chief Magistrate, Rechanne Browne as she expressed her disapproval of a student who turned up to court dressed in inappropriate school attire.

The 16 year old form three student appeared at the Serious Offences Court on March 27, before the Chief Magistrate charged alongside her brother for throwing missiles.

Browne’s comments came after she observed the teen wearing a school skirt above her knees, sporting jewellery, and also had on her school tie inappropriately. Her footwear was a pair of pink, fashionable crocs.

After the teen was asked to leave the court room, her mother was called to take the stand before the charge was formally read to the teen.

The magistrate inquired about the deportment of the defendant and her brother, who was not dressed in school uniform, but in a manner deemed inappropriate for the court. The Chief Magistrate told the parent “We have a problem with these children.”

“We have to be careful with these things, uniform infractions, jewellery with the uniform, tie is tied incorrectly, crocs on your feet; if you’re coming in uniform come correct,” the magistrate said as she noted that the student’s attire can create problems for the school.

She asked that they ensure they attire themselves properly and be regular in school attendance.

Prosecutor, Renrick Cato intervened and told the court that the female defendant had only gone to school eight times for the entire school term.

The teen when called back into the courtroom, apparently displayed a poor attitude and the magistrate advised her that what she was telling her was for her own good.

Browne also encouraged the student “pull yourself together”, noting that there are many extra curricular activities in which she can become involved.

The 16 year old and her brother are charged that on March 26, 2023 at Questelles, in the vicinity of the public road, they threw missiles to the danger of Zorieann Baptiste and Reion Baptiste of Questelles.

The defendants who both pleaded guilty to their separate charges will continue station bail in the sum of $700.00. They are to have no contact with the virtual complainants, and they were placed on a curfew from 7:00 p.m- 6:00 a.m. If they breach the curfew, station bail will be revoked.

The matter is adjourned and transferred to the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court to be heard on May 15.