Dancehall luminary Popcaan is set to make a court appearance today (Wednesday, January 10) to address charges arising from last December’s Unruly Fest. In response to the allegations, the artist has entrusted his legal matters to Bert Samuels, a prominent attorney overseeing the case.
Popcaan, born Andrae Sutherland, faces charges including the use of indecent language, disorderly conduct, issuing threats to police officers, and breaches of the Noise Abatement Act, as confirmed by the police’s Corporate Communications Unit.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the situation, Samuels highlighted the unfortunate circumstances surrounding Popcaan’s charges. The attorney emphasized the reggae artist’s commitment to the development of St Thomas and questioned the limitations imposed on artists like Popcaan, advocating for designated spaces across parishes to facilitate their artistic expressions without interference.
Samuels remarked, “Maybe with elections around the corner, someone will step forward on the side of the people and create these spaces.” He conveyed readiness to represent Popcaan, referring to him as the “son of St Thomas,” a parish rich in resistance but seemingly neglected.
The incident leading to the charges unfolded when Popcaan, frustrated on stage, directed expletives at police officers who purportedly instructed him to conclude Unruly Fest earlier than agreed upon. Despite presenting what seemed to be an unsigned agreement with the St Thomas Police Division specifying the event’s duration, the show was abruptly halted by law enforcement.
The 2023 edition of Unruly Fest showcased performances from local talents like Skillibeng, Jahshii, Chronic Law, Protoje, Govana, and Sean Paul. Additionally, surprise guest rapper Quavo graced the stage, adding to the festival’s eclectic lineup.
