A Dominican Republic national living in Antigua says she is living in fear after a violent assault last month left her hospitalised.
Criselle Alexandra Mateo Javeir, 25, told reporters she was struck twice over the head with a piece of wood on the evening of 26 August after refusing gifts from a man she once considered a close friend.
She said she lost consciousness and required several stitches to her scalp. Her four-year-old son witnessed the attack.
According to Javeir, the man’s mother intervened and stopped the assault. She also claims she has since faced threats and harassment from the man and his family, who are pressuring her not to pursue the case.
Police confirmed that an arrest warrant has been issued and that a court hearing is set for 16 September, but Javeir says little has been done to guarantee her safety.
Having moved to Antigua just over a year ago in search of a better life for her son, Javeir says she now remains in hiding, struggling with trauma, discrimination, and the language barrier. Her appeal, she says, is simple: protection before it is too late.
