BTC building.
Employees at the Boys Training Centre (BTC) walked out a few minutes ago, after a juvenile was returned by police officials for a second time.
St. Lucia News Online (SNO) understands that the juvenile was arrested and questioned in relation to a recent shooting on Chaussee Road, Castries.
A reliable source told SNO that the juvenile was held at the Central Police Station during last week.
He was first returned to the BTC on Thursday, but workers were not pleased and raised their concerns. He was taken back to the station, where he was held until Friday, pending another court hearing, where he faced additional charges.
During this period, several government officials met with the management of the BTC and the police, to iron out the issue. It was suggested that the teenager be returned to the BTC, based on the court order.
However, he was returned this morning and staff were promised that he will be guarded.But they are not pleased with the decision, given that the BTC is not a secured place and the juvenile is “very dangerous.”
The source told SNO that the two special police constables have been placed with the teenager. However the officers are not armed and there is no clear indication, as to how long the officers will be assigned to work at the BTC guarding him.
The 15-year-old has also made numerous threats to the staff, in front of the police, the source claims. Workers said they feel unsafe and is asking the authorities to have him placed at another institution.
The teenager has been at the BTC for over five years. He has also escaped several times and is known to allegdely carry weapons and illicit drugs.
He is being held for questioning with regards to the shooting death of James Alexander Nelson, 43, of Calvary Road, Castries.