Anthony “Gabby” Carter
Anthony “Gabby” Carter, the 76-year-old Calypso icon and cultural ambassador, has been granted bail after appearing in the Number One District Magistrates Court today. Carter, a nine-time Calypso monarch, faces serious charges of rape.
The charges, which were read aloud in court, allege that between July 17 and September 8, 2023, Carter had sexual intercourse with a woman without her consent, or was reckless as to whether she consented. Despite the seriousness of the charge, the prosecution did not object to bail, citing the age of the case. However, they imposed certain conditions. Carter must surrender his passport by 2 p.m. today and report to the Hastings police station every Tuesday and Saturday.
As part of his profession as an entertainer, Carter has the option to apply for permission to travel before his next court appearance, scheduled for July 14, 2025.
Carter’s wife, Sheena Carter, signed his bail bond in the sum of $10,000. Senior counsel Andrew Pilgrim, representing Carter along with Leslie Cargill Straker, spoke to Starcom Network News after the hearing. Pilgrim expressed confidence in his client’s defense, emphasizing that everyone, regardless of status, is entitled to their day in court.
“Like any other person, he can be accused of a crime. He’s going to prove his innocence before the courts,” Pilgrim stated. “We expected that bail would be granted on reasonable terms, as it was. We anticipate the same treatment for Gabby as we would for anyone, whether from Chapman Lane, Clapham, or Connell Town. We follow the system and will do our best to set things right.” Gabby will return to court in July.