A man, who was prepared to plead guilty to having carnal knowledge of a 13-year-old girl, proclaimed his innocence after he was told the meaning of the charge.
Cecil Romeo, 36, had been requesting for his matter to be brought forward for some time, since he had indicated that he was ready to enter a guilty plea. It is alleged that Romeo, on August 12, 2007, in the county of Demerara, committed the act.
When he was brought before Justice Winston Patterson yesterday, Romeo was asked if he knew the virtual complainant and he said he did. However, after Romeo indicated that he did not understand what the term “carnal knowledge” meant, attorney Kevon Bess volunteered to speak to the accused on behalf of the court, after which the matter was adjourned for a few minutes.
During this adjournment, Bess explained to the accused the charge in simpler terms. After returning to the bench, Justice Patterson was told that Romeo has maintained his innocence with a not guilty plea.
Prosecutor Teshanna James-Lake subsequently indicated to the court that the state will make all efforts to proceed with the matter as soon as possible.
Romeo was advised by Justice Patterson to hire a lawyer and be prepared for when the case is called, otherwise he would be required to represent himself.
