The Dangriga Town Council is facing a major legal battle after a pre-litigation letter exposed allegations of political interference, a literal lockout, and the unlawful termination of former Town Administrator, Austin Petillo.
In a demand letter dated May 29, 2026, Petillo;'s attorney OJ Elrington gave Dangriga Mayor Robert Mariano and the Town Council a 14-day ultimatum to settle or face a High Court lawsuit. Petillo is seeking $180,000 dollars in damages, alleging constructive dismissal and breach of contract.
The letter claims that as Petillo tried to execute his duties in accordance with the Town Councils Act and Municipal Service Regulations, he was met with "persistent political interference, obstruction, and improper attempts to undermine his lawful authority."
The tension allegedly culminated dramatically on the evening of July 13, 2024 when the Mayor or Council agents informed Petillo that he had been physically locked out of the Town Council compound and barred from fulfilling his duties.
Petillo formally notified the Council of his constructive dismissal on August 9, 2024, which the Council allegedly cemented via a responsive letter on August 12, 2024.
The Dangriga Town Council has been given 14 days fto confirm they are willing to enter good-faith settlement discussions.
Mayor Robert Mariano and the Dangriga Town Council have not yet publicly responded to the allegations or indicated whether they intend to settle or fight the matter in court.
