A 52 year old Dominican Republic national is before the magistrate’s court for allegedly overstaying her time in the Territory. She has since been placed on $45, 000 bail. Photo: VINO/File

Roberts is charged with remaining in the territory beyond the period granted. She had pleaded guilty at her previous appearance.

The defendant allegedly reported to the Civil Registry on February 27, 2012 and was asked about her status in the Territory. She indicated to the officer that she had none and was further asked whether she was in possession of her passport to which she responded in the affirmative.

After a later check of the database confirmed that she indeed had no status with regard to the Territory, a formal report was made and she was arrested and charged for the offence.

Crown Counsel Leslie-Ann Faulkner indicated that nothing was known of the defendant in the Territory but indicated that she would check out of the abundance of caution about any prior matters in Antigua and Barbuda where she previously resided.

Attorney at Law, Ruthilia Maximea, who represented the defendant, noted that Roberts was very remorseful and that her sole intent upon arrival to the Territory was to visit her son Juan Carlos, whom she had not seen in about three years.

Ms Maximea explained that the defendant approached the Civil Registry with the intent of regularising her time of stay in the Territory and has complied fully with authorities from the time of her arrest. Her travel documents were also previously surrendered upon request.

The defendant’s actions, she explained, were about securing medical attention which she felt her son could pay for since she was "financially embarrassed" at the time.

She also took note of the fact that it was an indictable offence but requested that a fine be given instead of a custodial sentence for her client since she had expressed remorse.

Ms Maximea also told the court that Roberts had an open ticket to Antigua and Barbuda and was willing to return at the earliest opportunity where it is hoped she would receive help for her continued medical needs.

Ms Roberts, who was granted $45, 000 bail, will return to court on October 19, 2012.