Farmer charged with murder of St Thomas woman

A St Thomas farmer has been charged with the murder of 28-year-old Roshni Bonfield, otherwise called ‘Danesha', whose body was found in a gully in the parish on January 27.

He is 49-year-old Cecil Stewart, otherwise called 'Grabba,' of Golden Valley, Whitehall, St Thomas.

Bonfield was last seen alive on January 26, about 3:30 p.m., when she left her home to visit a neighbouring community.

Later that day, a resident discovered her handbag and cellular phone abandoned along a roadway near her home.

Bonfield was reported missing and on January 27, a search was conducted in the community by residents, which led to the discovery of her body in a gully.

On January 28, Stewart turned himself in accompanied by his attorney, and reportedly confessed to the crime. He was formally charged with murder on January 30.

Crime Officer for St Thomas, Deputy Superintendent of Police Maxine Bernard, commended the collaborative effort between the police and the community that led to Stewart's arrest and charge.

"This swift breakthrough was made possible through the hard work and diligence of our investigating officers and the concerned residents of Golden Valley. The St. Thomas Police remain committed to ensuring justice for Roshni Bonfield and her loved ones. We encourage anyone with additional information to come forward as we pursue justice for Roshni," she stated.

Stewart's court date is being finalised.

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