Accused cell phone snatcher nabbed after chase – court hears

A 19-year-old man who allegedly snatched a cellular phone from a woman was yesterday remanded to prison after he appeared before acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

The accused, Delroy Thomas of Lot 104 Public Road, Wales was charged with larceny from the person. It is alleged that on December 12 at Georgetown, he stole one Motorola cellular phone valued $25,000, belonging to Leanna Thomas. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge after it was read to him.

Prosecutor Lionel Harvey told the court that on the day in question at about 13:00 hours the VC went to China Trading store near  Scotia Bank on Robb Street. Harvey said that the VC after leaving the store took out her cellular phone and attempted to make a call. However, the accused while passing by snatched it and made good his escape. The prosecutor said that  public-spirited citizens who were in the area raised an alarm and gave chase after the defendant ran in the direction of Avenue of the Republic. The prosecutor further noted that two police officers attired in civilian clothing apprehended the accused and took him into custody.

After stating the facts the prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds that Thomas is a repeat offender and poses a flight risk. The man was remanded to prison until the matter is called on January 15.