Labourer accused of robbing US visitor at gunpoint

A 31-year-old labourer who allegedly held a visitor from the United States at gunpoint and robbed him of articles valued in excess of $900,000 was yesterday placed on $250,000 bail after he appeared before acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

On February 7 at Georgetown it is alleged that Randy Morris,  being armed with a dangerous weapon to wit a gun, robbed Roy Williams of a gold band, clothing, footwear, two suitcases, one cellular phone, and $3,000 Guyana currency, all amounting to a value of $957,000.

The defendant who resides at Lot 263 East La Penitence Industrial Site was not required to plead to the indictable charge when it was read to him.

In presenting the facts Prosecutor Lionel Harvey told the court that on the day in question the VC who resides in the United States was on Princes Street, Georgetown, speaking to a friend when he was approached by the accused who pointed a gun at him while demanding the articles mentioned in the charge. The prosecutor added that the VC reported the matter at the police station but returned to the USA.

He said further that an investigation was subsequently carried out and as a result of the VC returning to Guyana an identification parade was held and the accused was pointed out by Williams. The defendant was then charged with the offence of robbery under arms.

When given a chance to speak the accused stated:

“They put me on an identification parade but I was never identified…when the police finished with me I was sitting upstairs and afterward the VC came and looking at me…”

The prosecution had no objection to bail but  requested that it be granted at a substantial sum to ensure that the defendant returns to court.

Morris was placed on $250,000 bail and the matter was transferred to Court Five where it will be called again on October 28.