MONTEGO BAY, St James — Despite a deportation order being made, it is unclear whether two Haitians who appeared in the St James Parish Court on Wednesday, charged with illegal entry, will be sent back to their home country.

Daphney Joseph and Cadestin Wilman pleaded guilty to the charge with the assistance of a translator when they appeared before presiding judge Kaysha Grant-Pryce.

The specifics of the allegations were not provided, but the court was informed that the two Haitians arrived in the island by boat on May 17.

During Wednesday’s court session, the two accused were overcome with emotion, shedding tears and pleading with the judge not to send them back to Haiti.

When the male defendant was allowed to address the court, he stated that he decided to take the risk of coming to Jamaica in pursuit of a more favourable life due to the current circumstances in Haiti.

The investigating officer, who was present in court, stated that no one has been deported so far, and that they will be taken to a facility in Kingston where they will be assessed for asylum on a case-by-case basis.

During the sentencing process, Judge Grant-Pryce admonished and discharged the two defendants, in addition to issuing a deportation order.

After delivering the sentence, she explained to the defendants that she was required by law to enforce the deportation order and that matters concerning asylum are a separate process over which she has no authority.

It was also stated in court that Joseph’s children were taken before the Family Court and are currently in the custody of the State.