Roseau Mother and Daughter Charged in Alkali Attack Amid School Fight

Concerns over rising public altercations involving minors escalated this week following a disturbing school-related incident in Roseau. On April 4th, Dominica Police arrested 45-year-old Adama Shillingford and her 14-year-old daughter after a violent confrontation, partially captured on video and widely shared across social media platforms.

According to police reports, Shillingford was charged with four summary offenses, including battery, aiding and abetting, and assault by spraying a liquid alkali substance into the eyes of a student. She also allegedly carried a knife during the incident. The charges stem from an altercation involving her daughter and other students, which escalated in a public setting, drawing widespread condemnation and sparking a national conversation about school violence and parental conduct.

Shillingford appeared before Magistrate Hansel Valaire and entered a plea of “not guilty” on all counts. Defense attorney Zena Moore Dyer, representing both mother and daughter, successfully appealed for a reduction in bail, which was initially set at $15,000. It was ultimately revised to $10,000. The defendant’s 27-year-old son was proposed as surety, though the prosecution raised questions about his ability to ensure his mother’s compliance with court obligations.

The case has been adjourned to July 18, 2025. In a parallel proceeding, the 14-year-old daughter faces two assault charges. Her case is expected to be transferred to the juvenile family court, with a bail hearing scheduled for April 9, 2025.

Both students who were reportedly affected by the alkali substance attended court in school uniform and dark sunglasses, accompanied by their parents—a stark reminder of the incident’s emotional and physical toll on those involved.

In response to the events, the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force issued a public statement urging parents and guardians to model peaceful conflict resolution. Authorities warned that taking disputes into one’s own hands, especially in school environments, sends a harmful message to youth and disrupts community order.

Law enforcement officials emphasized that resolving disputes through violence can have serious legal consequences, not only for adults but also for minors. They reiterated the importance of setting an example rooted in calm dialogue, responsibility, and lawful action, particularly when disputes arise in educational settings.

The incident has ignited public discourse on how best to address rising tensions in schools and the role of parental involvement in promoting a safe, respectful environment for all students.

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