The Royal St. Lucia Police Force wishes to advise the general public of the following sections of law, in light of numerous complaints regarding violations of rights of individuals during the conduct of religious ceremonies.

According to the Criminal Code of St. Lucia;

Public Worship Offences 566.   Irreverence near place of worship during service, or cemetery during burial

A person who—

(a)        behaves irreverently near any church, chapel, or other building for religious worship during divine service;

(b)        behaves irreverently or indecently in or near any public burial ground during the burial of a dead body,

is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $1,000 or to imprisonment for one year.

567.   Disturbing person in place of worship

A person who—

(a)        disturbs or molests any other person in any place of divine worship, whether during divine service or at any other time;

(b)        behaves in a riotous, indecent, disorderly, or insulting manner in any place of divine worship, whether during divine service or at any other time,

is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $1,000 or to imprisonment for one year.

568.   Disturbing minister, etc, at celebration in public

A person who disturbs or molests any minister of religion while celebrating any religious rite or office in any public way or public place, or any other person aiding, assisting, or attending at the celebration of such rite or office, is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $1,000 or to imprisonment for one year.