Her lifeless body was found on her bed by her 9-year-old son. Neighbours told local media at the time that a man had visited her the night before.

A postmortem examination revealed that she died due to “asphyxia due to suffocation”.

After one year of investigations, the police have finally laid charges against a Trois Piton, Castries man.

“On Thursday, January 5, 2024, the Major Crimes Unit embarked on an extensive, challenging, yet meticulous investigation into the circumstances surrounding the murder of forty-two-year-old (42) Saraphina Stephen. On Thursday, March 7, 2024, the tenacity of the Major Crimes Unit led to the apprehension of sixty-year-old (60) Lawrence Dupre alias “Joy” of Trios Piton, Castries, who was subsequently charged for Murder of Saraphina Stephen,” a police statement disclosed.

Women’s Rights Groups continue to lobby for an end to gender-based violence in general and violence against women in particular.

In November 2023, the government partnered with the French Embassy to launch the “Know Your Rights” Campaign, aimed at educating vulnerable groups about the different forms of gender-based violence.

Jessica St. Rose, a local LGBTQ and Women’s Rights Activist, underscored the importance of solving cold cases. She says continued education will help curb instances of domestic violence.

“Like the Minister said, we have to educate the public and raise awareness constantly because this is something that has been happening for years, and I know it will not end now but with the right education and our campaign and with the knowledge of our people, we can get somewhere,” she said. 

Saint Lucia is praised as having the most comprehensive and inclusive Domestic Violence Legislation.