The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) has confirmed that Justice Shawn Innocent, currently serving as a High Court Judge assigned to the Criminal Division in Grenada, has been charged with an indictable offence following an incident late last month.
In a statement issued on May 13, 2025, the ECSC disclosed that Justice Innocent was formally charged on April 28, 2025, with “assault with a deadly instrument” in contravention of Section 176(e) of Grenada’s Criminal Code. The court confirmed that Justice Innocent has been granted bail and is expected to appear in court to answer to the allegations.
In response to the developments, the ECSC said Justice Innocent has been temporarily de-rostered from his judicial duties to preserve public confidence and ensure the smooth continuation of court operations. A replacement judge will take over his caseload at the Criminal Court in Grenada, effective June 1, 2025.
“The ECSC is treating this matter with the utmost seriousness, while also respecting Justice Innocent’s constitutional rights,” the court emphasized. The statement further reassured the public of the ECSC’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and preserving the integrity of the judiciary.
This development has sent ripples through the legal community in the Eastern Caribbean, as it is rare for sitting judges to face such charges. Legal observers note the ECSC’s swift move to manage the fallout while reinforcing judicial accountability.
The ECSC has encouraged members of the public seeking more information about the court and its processes to visit its official website at eccourts.org.
Source: ECSC statement via Now Grenada, May 13, 2025.
