Letter by Joy St Omer details frustration with justice system

New information emerging in the case of Joy St Omer is providing further insight into the circumstances and concerns surrounding the period leading up to her death.

The killing of the 24-year-old mother of one on Wednesday, May 20, has prompted public concern about the effectiveness of the island’s protective and judicial systems. People close to St Omer say she had also expressed frustration with aspects of the process.

St Lucia Times spoke with a source familiar with the situation.

Following the shooting, an audio recording began circulating on social media, which appeared to relate to the couple’s relationship. While the recording surfaced after her death, St Lucia Times has confirmed it dates back to last year, while the now murder accused – St Omer’s estranged husband, Primus Toussaint – was incarcerated overseas.

Earlier this year, Toussaint was remanded to the Bordelais Correctional Facility on charges of “causing harm, threatening words and violation of a protection order”, according to police.

He was later granted bail at the High Court. A source said this development caused St Omer significant distress and that she made repeated efforts to obtain clarity on the conditions attached to his release.

“She made multiple calls to the court and also the police officers to find out the conditions of his bail. She passed and never got them,” the source told St Lucia Times.

“She definitely lost faith in the justice system. She did everything the right way – the way they would advise us to handle a situation like this, and they still failed her.”

Police have confirmed that the last report made by St Omer was lodged at the Anse La Raye Police Station around 8:30 a.m. on the day of her death.

A letter reviewed by St Lucia Times and believed to have been written by St Omer approximately a week and a half before her death reflects concerns she raised about the justice system and her experience navigating the process.

Letter written by Joy St Omer on May 7, 2026

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to formally state my intention to withdraw the charges previously made against my estranged husband.

After careful consideration, I have decided that I no longer wish to pursue this matter through the court system. This decision has been heavily influenced by my growing lack of confidence in Saint Lucia’s justice system and my belief that continuing with this case would require unnecessary expenditure of my time, energy, and financial resources, particularly as the circumstances surrounding the matter already suggest that it is unlikely to result in a fair or positive outcome on my behalf.

Throughout this process, I made several attempts to contact the court and consistently followed up with police officers regarding the bail conditions imposed on my estranged husband. Despite my repeated efforts, I was unable to receive clear answers or meaningful assistance. On many occasions, there appeared to be little concern, urgency, or accountability regarding the matter, leaving me feeling unsupported and disregarded as a complainant seeking protection and clarity.

Additionally, I must express my disappointment with the manner in which aspects of this matter were handled by certain members of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force. During the process, I was subjected to disrespectful treatment by a female officer who displayed little to no empathy regarding my situation. I also encountered instances where other officers appeared uninterested and lacked the urgency expected in matters of this nature.

It is deeply concerning that the system continues to fail many women in Saint Lucia who seek help, protection, and justice in vulnerable situations. There is a serious need for improvement in how these matters are handled, particularly in relation to communication, sensitivity, accountability, and the overall protection and support afforded to women who come forward with complaints. Women should feel heard, protected, and taken seriously when reporting matters of this nature.

While I am requesting that the criminal charges be withdrawn, I wish to make it explicitly clear that the restraining order issued by the Family Court in February 2026 is to remain fully effective and in force. I do not wish for that order to be voided or altered in any way due to my estranged husband’s violent nature and my continued concern for my personal safety and well-being.

Please accept this letter as my formal request to discontinue any further proceedings associated with this complaint. I respectfully ask that the necessary steps be taken to process this withdrawal.

Despite the concerns outlined above, I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to the investigating officer, SPC 98 Henry, assigned to my matter for his efforts, professionalism and assistance throughout the process. I appreciate the time and work he invested in handling the case and ensuring the matter was addressed to the best of his ability.”

Questioned about the allegations and the contents of the letter, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force told St Lucia Times: “The matter is being investigated, and these issues form part of the investigation, so no premature disclosures will be made.”

As the family continues to mourn St Omer’s death, they say they want to remember her for who she was – someone who was full of life and very supportive of others.

“I’ll remember her through the love and support she gave, the memories we shared. She was full of life and made sure everyone around her was okay; always encouraging people around her to elevate themselves, to do better and push themselves. No matter how much time passes, a part of her will always live with me,” a close relative said.