Dominican court convicts US businessman for illegal importation of gun
A 79-year-old businessman from the United States has been fined after he pleaded guilty to gun-related charges in Dominica.
The man, identified as William Elton Kennedy from Louisiana, was fined EC$7,500 in court.
Details of the incident
This incident unfolded following his arrival at Douglas Charles Airport on January 24, 2024, accompanied by his wife and two pilots aboard his private jet.
Reports are that upon Kennedy’s return to the airport on January 28, an inspection by the pilot, Phillip Schiatel, led to the discovery of a 9mm pistol and two magazines loaded with ammunition concealed within the aircraft.
This discovery prompted the involvement of ground handlers and, subsequently, the police, who took possession of the firearm and ammunition.
Kennedy confessed to bringing the items to Dominica without proper declaration, citing unawareness of the legal requirements for traveling with firearms to the island.
Kennedy was arrested and faced a charge of importation of a firearm and importation of ammunition into Dominica without a firearm and ammunition license.
However, those two charges were withdrawn by the prosecution after he pleaded guilty to his failure to declare the firearm and ammunition to customs.
Legal proceedings and outcome
During the court proceedings, Kennedy’s attorney highlighted his client’s age, lack of prior convictions, and cooperation with local authorities as mitigating factors.
The plea emphasized Kennedy's honesty and immediate admission of guilt, suggesting a non-custodial sentence.
Magistrate Michael Laudat, addressing the case, underscored the principle that ignorance of the law excuses no one.
However, recognizing Kennedy’s cooperation and guilty plea, which spared the court a prolonged trial, Laudat opted against incarceration.
Instead, Kennedy was ordered to pay a fine for his failure to declare the firearm and ammunition, which he settled promptly.
