Probation report ordered on chain snatcher

A man who snatched a woman’s chain was on Thursday remanded to prison by acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, who ordered a probation report to be given prior to sentencing.

Jermain Sampson, 31, pleaded guilty to the charge of larceny from the person. The charge stated that on February 14, at Georgetown, he stole from the person of Kamini Persaud a gold chain, valued $75,000.

In presenting the facts of the case, Police Corporal Venetta Pindar told the court that on the day of the incident, Sampson approached the complainant, who was standing on Camp Street, and snatched her chain. He made good his escape on the bicycle.

An alarm was subsequently raised by Persaud and public-spirited citizens were able to apprehend Sampson, who was arrested and charged. He admitted to the offence levelled against him.

Pindar said that a piece of the chain was recovered on Sampson’s person.

When given a chance to speak, the defendant said that he wanted a chance to return the woman’s chain.

Meanwhile, when asked by the magistrate why he snatched the woman’s chain, the father of three responded “nothing.” The virtual complainant was not at court.

Magistrate Sewnarine-Beharry then ordered a probation report to be given before sentencing. Sampson was then informed that he would be remanded to prison until March 11.