Police operation leads to major firearm and drug bust as Carellie man pleads guilty
CASTRIES, St Lucia, Oct. 26, 2025 — A Carellie man pleaded guilty to multiple firearm, ammunition, and drug-related offences before the High Court, following a police search in Castries that uncovered an illegal weapon, ammunition, and cannabis at his residence late last year. The plea confirms the Carellie man’s role in one of the island’s more significant firearm and narcotics cases in recent months.
Police identified the accused as Chester Garner Ernest, 50, who appeared before the High Court on Wednesday, October 15. During the hearing, Ernest admitted to possessing an unlicensed firearm, 264 rounds of ammunition, and a quantity of cannabis.
Investigators said the charges stemmed from a police operation at Ernest’s Carellie home in December 2024. Officers found the firearm hidden inside a pair of sneakers, ammunition concealed within a false air-conditioning vent, and the marijuana packed in a barrel.
The defendant was charged with possession of a firearm, three counts of possession of ammunition, possession of controlled drugs, and possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply. Sentencing is scheduled for December 12, 2025.
Ernest, who also holds U.S. citizenship, remains on remand at the Bordelais Correctional Facility in connection with another ongoing matter.
According to the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, he also faces charges tied to a 2022 firearm seizure at the Castries Port. The Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms Unit reopened that case in February 2025 after reviewing new evidence, leading to fresh charges on July 4, 2025, for three counts of firearms importation.
This latest conviction comes as law enforcement continues to target illegal firearms and drug networks across the island. Earlier this year, a joint Customs and police seizure of synthetic drugs at the ports underscored the growing collaboration between agencies to disrupt trafficking operations and strengthen border security.
The case underscores continuing efforts by police to combat illegal firearm possession and drug trafficking across St Lucia. Authorities say investigations of this nature are critical to ensuring accountability and enhancing public safety.
For ongoing updates on firearm and narcotics investigations across St Lucia, follow Unitedpac St Lucia News for verified reports and developing stories.
