BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE police officer involved in a 2023 hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of 80-year-old Florence Ella Merchant has been sentenced to three years and six months in prison. The case, which sparked national outrage, culminated with the verdict delivered at the Charlestown High Court.
The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force confirmed that on Friday (Dec. 13), His Lordship Justice Patrick Thompson, Jr. sentenced Brent Edwards, of Rawlins, Nevis, for Causing Death by Dangerous Driving and Failing to Stop Immediately at the scene of an accident.
According to a police statement, Edwards pleaded guilty to both charges, acknowledging his role in the incident.
The tragedy unfolded on July 15, 2023, when Merchant was discovered with severe injuries on a roadside in New River, Nevis. She was hospitalized but succumbed to her injuries two days later, on July 17, 2023. The hit-and-run shocked the nation, prompting widespread public condemnation, particularly regarding why someone would leave an injured octogenarian at the scene.
Following revelations that a police officer was involved, Commissioner of Police James Sutton publicly acknowledged the incident. "As Commissioner of Police, I wish to address the recent incident involving a police officer suspected of hitting a pedestrian and failing to remain at the scene. I want to assure the public that this matter will be thoroughly investigated, leaving no stone unturned. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of accountability, and anyone found responsible will face appropriate charges,” Sutton stated at the time in a press statement.
He also appealed to the public for assistance, emphasizing the force's commitment to swift justice. “The Police Force takes this incident very seriously, and we are committed to maintaining transparency while we pursue justice,” he said.
The case reignited criticism of the police force, with some accusing it of covering up wrongdoing by its own officers. However, during a press conference earlier this year, the police force strongly denied those claims, insisting that officers found culpable are held accountable after thorough investigations.
The sentence is seen as a significant step toward restoring public confidence in the force. In addition to his prison term, Edwards’ driver’s license will be suspended for three years following his release. Before regaining eligibility to drive, he must complete a mandatory driving course.
