The saga continues in relation to the scandal that beset last year’s Miss Cayman Universe Pageant winner and the court proceedings which ensued after charges of assault and other offences for which she has now been convicted.
Tiffany Conolly’s conviction on the 6 charges she faced stemmed from a brawl outside the home of a former acquaintance during which she is said to have damaged property and assaulted the police.
She has since had her crown withdrawn and awarded to Chloe Powery-Doxey, who had placed 1st Runner Up in the 2022 Miss Cayman Islands Universe pageant.
Miss Powery-Doxy represented Cayman in last month’s Miss Universe pageant in New Orleans.
During her trial, Miss Conolly had pleaded mental health challenges but that was rejected by the presiding magistrate.
A written judgment in the matter is expected to be delivered at a later date and a social inquiry report has been ordered before her return to court on 20th April for sentencing.
The story has been picked up by the international press, with ABC news and other major news outlets publishing updates relating to Miss Conolly’s conviction and the scandal has sent shockwaves through the local community, spawning fodder for blogs and social media.
It remains to be seen whether the seriousness of the charges will lead to a custodial sentence or if the Court will opt for a more lenient approach, considering the mental health aspects raised during the trial.
The Miss Cayman Universe Committee has come under fire for allowing Miss Conolly to enter the competition which she subsequently won, as contestants are required to disclose matters such as pending legal charges.
Meanwhile, Hon. Minister for Tourism Kenneth Bryan announced at a press conference this week that in light of recent developments surrounding the Miss Universe franchise the government is reviewing its future relationship with the organisation.
Reading from a prepared statement he said: ”The Ministry of Tourism and the Miss Cayman Islands Universe Committee are aware of the summary court ruling in a criminal case pertaining to our reigning Miss Cayman Islands Universe. Miss Tiffanny Conolly. The committee along with the franchise in consultation with the Miss Universe organisation will explore the available options pursuant to, inter alia, the contract between Miss Connolly, the committee and the franchise.”
Mr Bryan also stated: “I’m seriously considering whether the Ministry acting on behalf of the Cayman Islands Government should continue with the franchise. It may be that the country may be served better, or get the same benefits if a private individual or private sector company held the franchise similar to what is currently happening with the Miss World franchise. I intend to review the franchise with my colleagues in Caucus and in Cabinet so that we are in agreement on the way forward.”
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