Undocumented Jamaica Migrant Sentenced to 12 Years for Firearm Offences

A Jamaica migrant has been sentenced to twelve years’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to multiple firearm-related offences.

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) confirmed that 44-year-old Merrick Anthony Jennings appeared before the court and admitted to the charges.

Jennings received the following sentences:

·        Count 1 – Possession of a Firearm: 12 years imprisonment

·        Count 2 – Possession of Ammunition: 12 years imprisonment

·        Count 3 – Possession of Cannabis: 3 years imprisonment

·        Count 4 – Unlawful Entry: 2 years imprisonment

All sentences will run concurrently, meaning Jennings will serve twelve (12) years in prison. Upon completion of his sentence, he will be deported from the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The charges arose from a police-led operation conducted in the Blue Hills district on July 9, 2024, during which officers discovered a firearm, ammunition and cannabis in Jennings’ possession.

Police noted that the seizure of the illegal firearm may have prevented a serious violent crime and potentially saved lives. The Force reiterated that every weapon removed from the streets strengthens community safety and demonstrates its commitment to proactive policing.