Lydia Charlery.
A female Bordelais Correctional Facility officer, who is facing drug possession charges, after being caught with the illegal substance in her private part, is still on the job.
This was confirmed with Communication Officer at Bordelais, Clive Jules, who told St. Lucia News Online (SNO) today that the officer was reinstated just a week after she was released on bail.
Lydia Charlery of La Pointe, Mon Repos was caught with two “bricks” suspected to be hashish or cannabis resin, tightly wrapped in a clear plastic bag and further concealed in foil paper in her possession on Sunday, April 12, police said.
The entire package reportedly weighed about 25 grams and was hidden in a sanitary pad worn by the correctional officer.
The 40-year-old mother of three was charged with possession of a controlled drug, intent to supply a controlled drug, attempt to introduce a controlled drug to a correctional facility and attempt to introduce a cell phone to a correctional facility.
She appeared in the First District Court on Tuesday, April 14 where she was granted bail in the sum of EC$2,500 or suitable surety.
Charlery was asked to surrender her travel documents and cannot leave the state without the court’s permission.
Asked why the officer was allowed to work, Jules said, “There is a presumption of innocence to everyone. We have to be very mindful that we don’t become the judge and the executioner. We have to allow due process to take place and only the judicial system will determine the fate and outcome of the officer.”
Jules said a date has been set for another court hearing. He could not say what the exact day was.
The hashish and the foil paper discovered in the private part of female prison officer.