Convicted man’s story of reform sparks applause, judge’s praise

It is not often that a courtroom erupts in cheers and applause—but that was the scene on Friday in the No. 4 Supreme Court when a convicted man delivered an impromptu, heartfelt testimony about turning his life around.

Niko Antonia James, of Cane Vale, Christ Church, appeared before Madam Justice Laurie-Anne Smith-Bovell for sentencing on a charge of handling stolen goods. He used the opportunity to share his journey of rehabilitation while incarcerated at Dodds Prison.

“I was recently charged with aggravated burglary and handling stolen articles. I was given hefty sentences of 21 years, 20 years, and 15 years to run concurrently. So when I got sentenced, I had promised Justice Smith-Bovell that whilst at the prison I would turn my life around and have a more productive life in society. Having made that decision, I decided to start with some CXCs and getting some qualifications, because I did not achieve any of these in school,” he stated.

James said that in the past four years, he has achieved a Grade One in Principles of Business and a Grade Two in English Language, and has requested to take three additional subjects.

“Thanks to Justice Smith-Bovell for giving me the inspiration and the good words that she has spoken to me when she sentenced me back in 2020, and I am looking forward to getting home and living a productive life,” he said to the applause of the pool of jurors and other persons in the court.

In response, the judge said: “I am proud of you as if you were my child, and I hope and pray that you continue on this path and that when you come out, as you have barbering skills, you start your business and can run it successfully. I pray this for you.”

“This is a story for the fellas out there on the block who think they cannot change their life around and to show that people can be rehabilitated,” Justice Smith-Bovell added.