Saint Lucia Police charge Finnish Woman for Swearing and failing to wear a mask

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) has slapped two charges on 30-year-old Johanna Koivulchto for using indecent language and failing to wear a mask in public. In a statement issued today, the RSLPF stated that on Wednesday, January 27 at about 11:00 am, COVID Wardens approached a maskless Koivulchto at Pigeon Island, Gros Islet.

“The officers reported that she was cautioned to do so, but refused, proceeding to hurl expletives at them. She was taken into custody for the refusal to adhere to the enacted laws.”

The RSLPF indicated that Koivulchto, a national of Finland has since been charged “with the offences of Swearing or Using Abusive or Indecent Language in Public Place (Contrary to Section 508 of the Criminal Code Chapter 3.01 of the Revised Laws of Saint Lucia 2013) and Failing to Wear a Mask or Suitable Covering Over the Nose or Mouth in Public (Contrary to Section 21 (a) (1) of the COVID-19 (Prevention and Control) Act No. 9 of 2020. She is currently in police custody awaiting a bail hearing.

“The RSLPF wishes to continue to encourage persons to adhere to the regulations, as we continue to fight against COVID-19. We remain resolute in our commitment to create a safer environment for all people in Saint Lucia. Stay Safe Saint Lucia!” the organization stated.