Criminal charges against members of the Kollision Band are set to be discontinued after the St Kitts and Nevis’ Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) determined that continuing the case was not in the public interest.
The Royal St Christopher and Nevis Police Force charged Erickson Williams Jr of Carifesta Village; Jason Kyte of Greenlands; Travis James of Finnes Avenue; Terrance Richards of St. Paul’s; Jahvian Barrett of Craddock Road, Nevis; Vern Pemberton of Ponds Extension; and Travis Thompson of Gingerland, Nevis with playing music on a public road without the required police permission.
The case stemmed from an incident during a funeral procession from the band’s late lead singer, Jermaine “Chubby” Clarke on May 20, where police alleged they played noisy instruments without the necessary licence
In a statement, the DPP’s Office said the alleged offence was regulatory in nature and did not involve violence or any threat to public safety.
After reviewing the circumstances, the office concluded that a criminal prosecution was not a proportionate response.
The DPP also pointed to the proposed Diversionary Caution Bill, 2026, which is intended to create alternatives to prosecution for minor offences where appropriate.
The legislation would allow suitable cases to be handled through measures such as cautions, counselling, community service or other restorative options, while allowing courts to focus on more serious crimes.
The DPP’s Office said it had engaged with lawyers representing the band members and welcomed their commitment to support anti-gang and anti-violence initiatives through the production of anti-gang music or participation in public awareness campaigns.
Following the decision, Kollision Band said it respects the authority of the police and remains committed to upholding the rule of law.
The band welcomed the DPP’s decision to use an alternative justice approach and said it was ready to move forward by supporting initiatives that promote harmony, respect and responsible citizenship.
As part of that commitment, Kollision Band announced it will join the national anti-gang and anti-violence campaign, using its music platform to encourage positive values among young people.
“Music has the power to inspire, uplift, and bring people together,” the band said, adding that it intends to use its influence to promote education, hard work, community service and the rejection of violence.
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