Demerara Criminal Assizes open

Justice Jo-Ann Barlow inspecting the guard of honour during yesterday’s opening ceremony of the new Demerara Criminal Assizes at the High Court.
Justice Jo-Ann Barlow inspecting the guard of honour during yesterday’s opening ceremony of the new Demerara Criminal Assizes at the High Court.
Justice Jo-Ann Barlow inspecting the guard of honour during yesterday’s opening ceremony of the new Demerara Criminal Assizes at the High Court.

162 cases are expected to be heard at the High Court as the second Demerara Criminal Assizes opened yesterday.

Among  the cases listed to be heard during the assizes are that of former Guyana Teachers’ Union President Colwyn King who is charged with carnally knowing a girl between 15 and 16.

This case is scheduled to be heard by Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

Meanwhile, the case against former leader of the Justice for All Party, Chandra Narine (CN) Sharma is  expected to be heard before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow. Sharma was charged with five counts of carnal knowledge and 1 count of indecent assault on a female.

Additionally, Justice Barlow is expected to preside over the case of Colin Jones, Randy Mars, David Anthony Watson and Basil Morgan, all of whom were charged with committing arson on the Ministry of Health back in 2009.

The retrial of Jevon Wharton and Charles Cush who were charged with the 2007  murder and sexual assault of 9-year old Mocha resident Sade Stoby is also scheduled to be heard.