Guardian to pay $350,000

In his ruling yesterday, Justice Devindra Rampersad held that former Guardian reporter Anika Gumbs-Sandiford was wrong when she wrote that Creed had been referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) by the Integrity Commission to answer allegations of misbehaviour in public office.

In the article, Gumbs-Sandiford alleged: “Sport Minister Anil Roberts, his permanent secretary Ashwin Creed and special adviser to the TT Boxing Board of Control (TTBBC) might have had a case to answer as allegations of misbehaviour in public office against the three have been referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions.” However, the Integrity Commission denied that report, saying Creed had not been referred to the DPP.

Justice Rampersad noted that the article - which was headlined ‘Anil faces DPP probe’, was defamatory, as he awarded Creed damages and exemplary damages for the injuries done to his reputation.

In his claim for defamation, Creed said he had an unblemished record of some 33 years as a public servant, and, “has been like Caesar’s wife, that is to say, beyond reproach throughout.” He said the Guardian article caused him and his family much anguish, pain and emotional distress. Creed was in court yesterday for the court’s ruling.

He was represented by attorney Peter Taylor while Frederick Gilkes represented the newspaper.