Social media blogger and “Straight to the Point” television host Dale Edwards could face imprisonment if he fails to comply with a High Court order requiring the removal of publications concerning a director of veterinary clinic Total Pet Care. Justice Frank Seepersad issued the warning during a virtual hearing in a defamation matter involving Edwards, also known as Dale Bernard, and Pure Media Concepts. The matter has been adjourned to September 28, with the judge indicating that continued failure to comply with the court’s directives could result in an application for contempt being considered, with possible incarceration. The dispute relates to an order granted by Justice Nirad Samnadda-Ramrekersingh on August 12. Under that order, the defendants were required to remove publications concerning Total Pet Care director Okera Thompson from Facebook, TikTok and other platforms. The order also required the removal of Thompson’s image and a photograph identifying his vehicle. The defendants were further restrained from republishing the material complained of or similar content. During the latest hearing, the court was told that despite the relevant documents being served on the defendants, the publications had allegedly not been removed. The court also heard that material was reportedly republished shortly after Edwards was personally served on September 3. Justice Seepersad stressed that a court order is mandatory and must be obeyed, even if the person affected disagrees with the decision. He indicated that the proper course is to comply with the order and then challenge it through the appropriate legal process. Edwards has not been found in contempt at this stage. The possibility of imprisonment would arise if contempt proceedings are pursued and the court ultimately makes such a determination. The matter is scheduled to return to court on September 28.
